Fernando Mendoza was still catching his breath as confetti covered Hard Rock Stadium. The Indiana quarterback’s postgame interview quickly became one of the night’s most memorable moments.
“I had to go airborne. I was diving. I would die for my team,” Mendoza told ESPN’s Holly Rowe. “Whatever they need me to do. If they need me to take shots from the front or the back. Whatever it is, I’m going to die for my team out there.”
The Heisman Trophy winner was describing a crucial fourth down touchdown run that helped seal Indiana’s first national championship.
Fernando Mendoza’s post-game interview after winning the National Championship. pic.twitter.com/ZSO81gr7cS
— CFB Kings (@CFBKings) January 20, 2026
The quote spread instantly across social media. Fans pointed to it as proof of the team’s mindset under coach Curt Cignetti.
Rowe had asked about a fourth quarter play where Mendoza got spun around before diving into the end zone for a 12-yard rushing touchdown. Cignetti called timeout with a three-point lead, then kept his offense on the field for fourth down.
The gamble worked. Indiana stretched their lead to 10 points with just over nine minutes remaining.
“That’s why he won the Heisman Trophy,” broadcaster Chris Fowler said. Kirk Herbstreit praised the aggressive call from Cignetti.
The moment capped off a perfect season. Indiana finished 16-0 and claimed the first national championship in program history.
