Indiana University’s remarkable journey from being the underdogs of the Big Ten to contenders for the national championship has captured the attention of college football fans in 2025. Under the leadership of second-year head coach Curt Cignetti, the Hoosiers have made history by finishing the regular season undefeated with a record of 13-0. They secured their first Big Ten title since 1967, earning them the prestigious No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff.
The team’s success this season can largely be attributed to the stellar performance of quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who achieved a significant milestone by winning the Heisman Trophy. Mendoza’s impressive statistics include 2,980 passing yards, 33 touchdown passes, and a remarkable 71.5% completion rate, which has played a crucial role in propelling Indiana into the national spotlight.
In a fascinating twist, Indiana’s rising notoriety coincides with the upcoming transfer cycle in college football, particularly regarding North Texas quarterback Drew Mestemaker. Currently leading the FBS in passing yards with 4,129 and boasting 31 touchdowns alongside a completion rate of 70.2%, Mestemaker is expected to enter the transfer portal when it opens in January.
On a recent episode of “College Football Insiders” aired on December 19, CBS Sports’ Chris Hummer highlighted the potential connection between Mestemaker and Indiana. He noted, “He can be somebody you can build your program around for multiple years. I’ve heard the same about Indiana. I think they do have a significant interest in Drew Mestemaker, and I think he would be a really good fit for their system.”
As the offseason approaches, it remains to be seen how the transfer portal will shake up college football rosters, but Indiana’s successful bid for a championship and potential new talent could inspire optimism for their fans and the future of the program.