Fernando Mendoza named to Independence Bowl all-time team at No. 9
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 13, 2026, 1:02 AM
Last updated Oct 13, 2026

Fernando Mendoza has been named the ninth player on the Independence Bowl's top-50 All-Time team, announced on October 12 as part of the bowl's 50th anniversary celebration. Mendoza, a Heisman Trophy winner, made his mark during his time at Cal, where he played against Texas Tech in the Independence Bowl. His collegiate career flourished after that, leading to impressive seasons with the Indiana Hoosiers and a national championship in 2025. The announcement will continue weekly, culminating in the reveal of the top player on December 7.
- •Independence Bowl celebrates 50th anniversary with all-time team list.
- •Mendoza played in the Independence Bowl in 2023 for Cal.
- •He was drafted first overall and began his NFL career with the Las Vegas Raiders.
- •Mendoza led the NCAA with 41 touchdowns in 2025.
- 1:02 AMYahoo Sports — Fernando Mendoza named No. 9 on Independence Bowl all-time team
"To mark its 50th anniversary, the Independence Bowl named Heisman trophy winner Fernando Mendoza as the ninth player on its top-50 All-Time team.
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