'You're my light': Fernando Mendoza dedicates Heisman Trophy win to his Mom

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'You're my light': Fernando Mendoza dedicates Heisman Trophy win to his Mom

Fernando Mendoza wiped away tears and looked toward his family Saturday night as he clutched college football’s most iconic trophy, dedicating his Heisman moment to the person he credits for everything that came before it — his mother.

“Mommy, this is your trophy as much as it is mine,” Mendoza said during his emotional acceptance speech. “You’ve always been my biggest fan. You’re my light, you’re my why, you’re my biggest supporter.”

The Indiana Hoosiers quarterback was named the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner during the ceremony at Lincoln Center’s Appel Room in New York City. The 22-year-old became the first player in program history to win the award, which has been presented annually si