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By Matthew Couden
Contributing Writer
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The undefeated Indiana Hoosiers are one win away from capturing the College Football Playoff National Championship after several dominant wins in their CFP games thus far.
Much of their success is thanks to quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who is also projected to be the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Mendoza has shown brilliance throughout his recent performances, including throwing for 177 yards and five touchdowns in his team's dominant 56-22 win over Oregon in the Peach Bowl.
Before that, Indiana won 38-3 as they eliminated Kalen DeBoer's Alabama Crimson Tide team. Mendoza impressively threw 14-of-16 completions for 192 yards and three touchdowns in the win.
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The Heisman Trophy winner is looking to add a national championship to his resume and shared an emotional message about a significant "why" in his life that keeps him positive and on the right track.
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While on the Big Ten Network's live coverage of CFP National Championship Media Day, Mendoza was asked about his mother, Elsa Mendoza, who has battled Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and has played a significant role in his life.
"Yeah, my mother is my light, she's my inspiration. She's taught me to always stay optimistic. Whenever it doesn't look good, whenever it's a tough day, whenever I see her be optimistic, I'm like 'Wow,'" Mendoza said while on the Big Ten Network's coverage.
"You know who cares if I had a bad game? If I had a bad lift, if I had a bad practice. I see her the way she fights and the way she overcomes a struggle, then wow, I gotta stay optimistic," he said.
"She's my why...Football players and athletes always talk about who's their why and what their why is, and my mom is my why," he shared in his emotional remarks, adding, "I'm so lucky to have as great a mom as her."
Mendoza's parents have been visible throughout his various games, including the CFP run, and have become celebrities because of their son. According to The Indy Star, Elsa Mendoza's MS diagnosis hit her 18 years ago, and she has continued battling ever since.
She penned an emotional letter to The Players Tribune, expressing her gratitude and love for her son ahead of his Heisman Trophy win.
Mendoza's mother, Elsa, and father, also Fernando, are expected to attend Monday's National Championship Game occurring in their home area of Miami, Florida.
If the Hoosiers quarterback is struggling, he'll remember his 'why' and have her there in the stands, supporting him through his ups and downs against the Miami Hurricanes.
Read more: Notre Dame Reveals Marcus Freeman Role for CFP Championship Game
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