NEW YORK — Indiana football coach Curt Cignetti had a good feeling that quarterback Fernando Mendoza would be headed to New York as a Heisman Trophy finalist long before the official announcement was made.

He had the best view in the house of Mendoza building a Heisman-worthy résumé throughout the fall.

“None of us are surprised that Fernando is a finalist,” Cignetti said during a virtual press conference on Wednesday.

Mendoza put up standout numbers — he led the FBS in passing touchdowns (33) and total touchdowns (39) — but what has made him a heavy favorite for the award is his performance in pressure-filled moments.

“I think there are unknowns entering every season, particularly with new guys, what I would say about Fernando is what stands out to me, is the way he performs wit

See Full Page