As was widely expected, Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza was awarded the Heisman Trophy on Saturday night in New York City.
Both in his acceptance speech and then later in a press conference, Mendoza shared thoughts about his faith in God and Jesus Christ.
“First I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to chase a dream that once felt a world away,“said Mendoza, who is an openly devout Catholic, during his acceptance speech.
Later in a press conference, Mendoza said, “My faith is a huge component and maybe the sole reason why I got here. All the bumps and bruises and the path that God has laid out for me, I wouldn’t want it any other way.
“Building that faith throughout college and now to be able to share my faith with these amazing teammates and just the community of faith, realizing having God on my side, always praising Jesus Christ, it’s incredible. I can’t thank the man above enough.”
Mendoza, a junior who transferred this season to Indiana from Cal, has completed nearly 72% of his passes for 2,980 yards with 33 touchdowns against six interceptions.
He’s also rushed for six touchdowns on 69 carries with 240 yards as the Hoosiers enter the College Football Playoff as the top seed.
Indiana will have a bye in the first round before facing the winner of the first round matchup between Oklahoma and Alabama (to be played on Dec. 19 at Oklahoma) on Jan. 1 in the Rose Bowl.