Alabama Defense Unfazed by Heisman QB Fernando Mendoza

Alabama defensive coordinator Kane Wommack is showing respect, but not fear, as his unit prepares to face Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza in the Rose Bowl. Mendoza’s historic season, highlighted by a Heisman Trophy and a perfect 13–0 record, has drawn national attention. Still, Wommack believes the Hoosiers’ success is about more than just one player — and that belief shapes Alabama’s defensive approach.

Wommack made it clear he understands Mendoza’s talent, calling him a “fantastic player” and the clear leader of Indiana’s offense. But he also pointed to the foundation behind that success: a powerful and well-designed run game. According to Wommack, Indiana’s rushing attack and detailed run-pass option (RPO) system allow the Hoosiers to control the pace and wear defenses down if they aren’t disciplined.

That assessment matches the numbers. Indiana’s ground game consistently set the tone all season, giving Mendoza time and space to operate. In the season opener against Old Dominion, Indiana piled up 309 rushing yards despite allowing a 75-yard touchdown run. The dominance continued against Maryland, where the Hoosiers rushed for a season-high 367 yards. Against Kennesaw State, eight different players combined for 313 rushing yards on 39 carries, showing just how deep and physical the unit can be.

With defenses forced to respect the run, Mendoza thrived. Indiana averaged roughly 221 passing yards per game, more than double Alabama’s average yardage output through the air. The balance allowed Mendoza to attack downfield and take advantage of explosive plays.

However, when the run game slowed, Mendoza faced tougher challenges. Against Iowa, Indiana managed only 104 rushing yards at 2.7 yards per carry. That allowed tighter coverage and limited play-action opportunities. Mendoza finished 13-of-23 for 233 yards and threw a late interception that nearly cost Indiana its unbeaten season.

Even so, Indiana’s offense remained one of the most efficient in college football. The Hoosiers averaged 41.9 points and 472.8 yards per game and led the nation in passing touchdowns. They lost just one fumble all season, while Mendoza threw only seven interceptions.

Alabama, though, is confident in its defensive blueprint. Wommack emphasized disciplined coverage, quick rallies to the ball, and constant pressure. The Crimson Tide defense enters the game with nine forced fumbles and 11 interceptions, ranking inside the top 20 nationally in turnover margin.

As if the matchup weren’t intense enough, Fernando Mendoza also carries physical pressure into the Rose Bowl. Indiana’s offensive line is nearly back to full strength, with starter Drew Evans returning after missing time midseason. Injuries tested Indiana’s depth in November, including absences for Evans and Elijah Sarratt, while E.J. Williams Jr. dealt with his own availability issues.

The Big Ten Championship brought another scare when Fernando Mendoza took a hard hit from Ohio State edge rusher Caden Curry on the opening snap. He briefly left the game but returned after one play to lead Indiana to its first Big Ten title since 1967. Though later signs showed his shoulder wasn’t fully healed, Mendoza pushed through.

Now, after extended recovery time, Indiana offensive coordinator Mike Shanahan says the group is close to full strength and confident heading into the quarterfinals. Still, the Rose Bowl presents Mendoza’s toughest test yet — an SEC defense ready to challenge the Heisman winner on the biggest stage of his career.

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