Fernando Mendoza’s clutch play against Miami leads undefeated Indiana to its 1st national title

By MAURA CAREY

MIAMI (AP) — A historic season for Fernando Mendoza ended with a national title.

The Heisman Trophy winner didn’t have his best statistical game Monday night, but he came up big when it mattered. He completed 16 of 27 passes for 186 yards and ran the ball six times, one of which was for a pivotal 12-yard touchdown.

Offensive momentum slowed for Indiana in the third quarter and the Hoosiers punted three times. Mendoza had zero passing yards and was sacked three times.