History made. Fernando Mendoza is the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner — the first in Indiana football history — and Rhett Lewis takes you inside one of the most meaningful moments the program has ever experienced.

Rhett reflects on the New York City ceremony, why Mendoza’s season was defined by moments (not just numbers), and how Indiana’s rise made this win feel inevitable. He breaks down Fernando’s signature throws, revisits the defining games that sealed the Heisman, and shares behind-the-scenes insight from the celebration alongside Yogi Roth and Galen Clavio.

Plus: what comes next for Indiana as the Hoosiers turn their attention to the Rose Bowl and College Football Playoff, and how Big Red Carpet will continue to cover every step of the journey.

👇 Comment below: Which Mendoza throw best defines his Heisman season?

Rhett Lewis checks in with Hoosier fans as Indiana continues its march toward the Rose Bowl and the College Football Playoff. Rhett previews the Heisman Trophy ceremony, explains why Fernando Mendoza’s biggest moments define this season, and outlines plans for live Substack coverage following Saturday night’s announcement.

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Rhett also addresses the toughest news of the postseason: Stephen Daley’s season-ending injury, what it means for Indiana’s defensive front, and the different schematic and personnel options available to defensive coordinator Bryant Haines heading into the playoff matchup.

Plus: Substack updates, upcoming film breakdowns, and what’s next for IU during the three-week break before kickoff in Pasadena.

Comment below: Drop a throw you want to see featured on the Mendoza highlight reel post in the comments!

The Indiana Hoosiers are Big Ten Champions — outright for the first time since 1945 — and Rhett Lewis takes you inside the sights, sounds, emotions, and strategy behind one of the greatest wins in IU football history.Rhett breaks down Indiana’s physical win over Ohio State, the toughness of Fernando Mendoza, the dominance of IU’s defense, and the brilliance of the coaching staff’s game plan. Plus: exclusive on-field reactions from Elijah Sarratt, Pat Coogan, Riley Nowakowski, Chandler Whitmer, Bryant Haines, Isaiah Jones, and Mikail Kamara.Then, Rhett looks ahead to the 2026 Rose Bowl, where No. 1 Indiana awaits the winner of Alabama vs. Oklahoma in the College Football Playoff.