It was a night to remember for the Indiana Hoosier faithful, as their storybook season continues to write new chapters. Last night (January 9) the Hoosiers left no doubt, running the Oregon Ducks out of Atlanta, Georgia in a 56-22 rout in the Peach Bowl.

From the opening defensive snap- Indiana controlled their destiny, as Defensive Back D’Angelo Ponds, a Chaminade-Madonna alum (C/O ’23), beautifully jumped the route and ran in a 25-yard interception return touchdown. Ponds would go onto finish the night with 6 Total Tackles (4 solo), .5 Tackles for Loss and the aforementioned INT, garnering him Defensive MVP Honors on the night.

*Editor’s note- at the time of this publishing, in depth Pro Football Focus Grades have not been released for the game*

Turning our attention to the offense means it’s time to begin highlighting the spectacle to the game that is QB Fernando Mendoza. Mendoza, a Miami Columbus alum (C/O ’22) put on yet another masterclass going 17/20 (85% Completion, 241.8 QBR) for 177 yards and 5 passing touchdowns, while adding another 28 yards on the ground. HeisMendoza was doing his thing- producing highlight throw after highlight throw, including two incredible deep connections with Elijah Sarratt and a 36 yard touchdown strike to Charlie Becker. This incredible night would place yet another accolade in Fernando Mendoza’s trophy case, as he earned Offensive MVP honors.

Indiana now stands at 15-0 with one final task in order to complete the quest for perfection. The Hoosiers will travel to Miami, FL. to face the Miami Hurricanes in the 2026 National Championship on Monday, January 19, marking the return to the 305 for Fernando Mendoza and D’Angelo Ponds.

Cover Photo Credit: Indiana Football Creative