In December 2025, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza took home the Heisman Trophy, opening up the possibility of becoming a Heisman winner and a national champion in the same season. After defeating Oregon in the semifinal, Mendoza will try to accomplish the rare feat against Miami in the 2025-26 national championship game.
Check out the Heisman winners who won a national championship in the same season below:
2020: DeVonta Smith, WR, Alabama
2019: Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2015: Derrick Henry, RB, Alabama
2013: Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State
2010: Cam Newton, QB, Auburn
2009: Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
2004: Matt Leinart, QB, USC
1997: Charles Woodson, CB, Michigan
1996: Danny Wuerffel, QB, Florida
1993: Charlie Ward, QB, Florida State
1976: Tony Dorsett, RB, Pittsburgh
1949: Leon Hart, Right End, Notre Dame
1947: John Lujack, QB, Notre Dame
1945: Felix 'Doc' Blanchard, FB, Army
1943: Angelo Bertelli, QB, Notre Dame
1940: Bruce Smith, RB, Minnesota
1938: Davey O'Brien, QB, Texas Christian
For more college football updates, check out the ESPN hub page with standings, scores, schedules, stats and more.
