MIAMI — As the College Football Playoff media day took place, all eyes were fixated on Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, while his younger brother, Alberto, observed from the sidelines. While Fernando is the star quarterback and key player for Indiana, Alberto holds the position of the backup. Recently, a significant shift occurred when Indiana University signed transfer quarterback Josh Hoover from TCU, potentially complicating Alberto’s path to a starting role.
Despite this setback, Alberto is determined to battle for the starting position rather than exploring a transfer. “I get it,” he commented, reflecting on the realities of the business side of college football. “It’s a business,” he reiterated, recognizing that in the NIL era, there is little patience for developing inexperienced quarterbacks.
Indiana’s coach, Curt Cignetti, is acutely aware of the competitive landscape shaped by the transfer portal. With over 200 quarterbacks entering the portal this season alone, the urgency to make quick, effective decisions at the quarterback position has never been greater. Alberto, who previously led Christopher Columbus High School to back-to-back state titles, possesses unique dual-threat capabilities demonstrated during limited playing time. He has made notable contributions, including five touchdown passes and impressive runs of 59, 53, and 39 yards.
Fernando has encouraged Alberto to seize the moment and compete fiercely against Hoover for the spot. “Go win the job instead of waiting,” he advised, galvanizing Alberto’s resolve. With the pressures and opportunities provided by the lift of NIL deals and transfer dynamics, the current climate presents both challenges and prospects for growth in the program.
As the hype around college football intensifies, Alberto remains focused on his goal. He envisions a scenario where not only he emerges as the starting quarterback, but also garners recognition for his talents, challenging the narrative surrounding high-profile transfer signings. Embracing this mindset could redefine his trajectory while shaping the narrative of college football for the right reasons.