Indiana QB Credits Faith After Historic Championship Win

Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza crossed the goal line on a gutsy fourth-down dive in the final quarter, then pointed skyward in thanks to the God he credits for getting him there.

The Heisman Trophy winner helped Indiana capture its first college football national championship on Monday night with a 27-21 victory over Miami. Despite getting bruised and battered throughout the game, Mendoza stretched his body across the two-yard line to score a crucial touchdown midway through the fourth quarter.

But the most touching moment came after the final whistle. Cameras caught Mendoza celebrating with Father Patrick Hyde and Father Ben Keller from Saint Paul Church, two priests who traveled from the Indiana University campus to watch their friend make history.

"For this team, for this young man, and for this experience, I give thanks and glory to God!" Father Hyde posted on social media the next morning. The priests were among thousands of Hoosiers fans who witnessed the historic win at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.

In his postgame interview, Mendoza immediately gave "glory to God" before anything else. He later hugged family members on the field as confetti rained down around them.

The quarterback has been vocal about his faith throughout the championship season. He regularly attends Sunday Mass and meets with the Saint Paul priests for confession and spiritual guidance.

Why This Inspires

Mendoza's openness about his faith shows how spiritual support can fuel athletic excellence. "The only reason I've gotten to this point is because there's so many different people helping me in my journey, and they've been one," Mendoza said about the priests. "They've done so much to help me, whether it's confession or just to be able to talk or just Mass every Sunday."

The relationship between the young quarterback and his spiritual advisors demonstrates something special happening beyond the scoreboard. While other athletes thank coaches and teammates, Mendoza made sure to honor the people who strengthened his spirit.

His willingness to celebrate his faith publicly, embracing priests on national television after the biggest win of his life, sends a powerful message about what truly matters. For Mendoza, the championship ring sits alongside something more valuable: a community of faith that supported him every step of the way.