Curt Cignetti highlights how Fernando Mendoza fills in for KurKurtis Rourke led the new Indiana team designed by Cignetti. He finished his CFB career with a great season, pitching in 2,827 yards, 27 TDs, and just 4 interceptions. However, his successor, Mendoza, is filling in for him where he lacked. Curt Cignetti has nothing but praise for his crucial QB recruit, who will be the face of a new and power-packed offense. “I think with him, you’re going to get some of it without even calling it. You know, like we’re having a big discussion on the quarterback draw, and when you look at our pocket passes and how many times he runs for a big game,” the HC said on ESPN’s College Football show.
Cignetti also brought to attention Mendoza’s passing abilities. “He’s got good movement, quick release, and can make all the throws. He’s accurate, also. Throws the ball on a run really well. So, yeah. Well, we move him around a little more than we do,” he said. Mendoza also rushed for 105 yards last season and is expected to bring more of that dual-threat talent to Indiana. He has impressive arm strength and also proves useful in short-yardage runs, which Rourke lacked. And there’s more: Mendoza also has the ability to execute more RPO plays.tis Rourke
All in all, if Curt Cignetti manages to reach the milestone he set for himself last season this year as well, it won’t be entirely shocking. He missed out in key areas, but 2024 showed what Indiana under him could do. With some important returning talent to lead the team and a formidable QB in Fernando Mendoza, Cignetti is all set to attempt a second run at creating program history.
