Fernando Mendoza commits to Indiana after missing call from Kirby Smart
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 10:27 PM
Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Quarterback Fernando Mendoza has committed to Indiana University for football, turning down Georgia. This decision came after Mendoza's mother encouraged him to choose Indiana over Georgia. He initially planned to join Georgia and even attempted to call coach Kirby Smart to finalize his commitment. However, Smart did not answer, prompting Mendoza to reflect and ultimately choose the Hoosiers. Mendoza later won the Heisman Trophy, and the Indiana team achieved an undefeated season, securing a national championship.
- •Mendoza initially intended to attend Georgia before choosing Indiana.
- •His mother played a key role in influencing his decision.
- •Mendoza missed a call from Smart while deciding.
- •He went on to win the Heisman Trophy.
- •Indiana finished the season 16-0, winning the national championship.
- 10:27 PMYahoo Sports — Georgia football coach Kirby Smart misses call from Fernando Mendoza, commits to Indiana instead
"Fernando Mendoza tells the story about committing to Indiana football on the advice of his mother.
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