Source: CBS Sports
Summary
Indiana quarterback Josh Hoover has extended the program’s 21-game winning streak and posted strong stats, including 15 passing touchdowns and a 203.7 passer rating through five games. Matt Leinart, a former Heisman winner, called for more attention for Hoover, noting his better numbers than 2025 Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza. Hoover, a fifth-year senior, has completed 71.0% of his passes with no interceptions. Indiana’s offense ranks second in the Big Ten in rushing and third in total yards and points. Hoover transferred from TCU, where he had a 147.8 passer rating and 65.1% completion rate. Mendoza led Indiana to a national championship in 2025 and won the Heisman.
Our Reading
This one felt recognizable early.
Hoover’s numbers are good, but no one’s talking.
Leinart’s bringing up Mendoza like it’s 2025 all over again.
Hoover’s got the schedule, but no hype.
The Heisman doesn’t care about streaks, just headlines.
Author: Evan Null
Josh Hoover’s Stats and Performance
Josh Hoover has been a consistent performer for Indiana, extending the program’s winning streak to 21 games. Through five games, he has thrown for 1,101 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and zero interceptions. His 203.7 passer rating is the best in the Big Ten, and he has completed 71.0% of his passes. Hoover’s stats have been impressive, but he hasn’t received the same level of national attention as other quarterbacks.
Comparison to Fernando Mendoza
Hoover’s performance has been compared to Fernando Mendoza, who led Indiana to a perfect 16-0 season in 2025 and won the Heisman Trophy. Mendoza threw for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns with a 182.9 passer rating. He also rushed for 276 yards and seven touchdowns. Leinart pointed out that Hoover has better stats than Mendoza and hasn’t turned the ball over.
Indiana’s Offensive Rankings
Indiana’s offense has been one of the best in the Big Ten. The Hoosiers rank second in rushing yards (252.6 per game), third in total yards (489.6 per game), and third in points (44.2 per game). Their passing attack is 11th in the conference with 237.0 yards per game. Hoover’s performance has been a key factor in the team’s success.
Hoover’s Background and Transfer
Hoover transferred to Indiana after four seasons at TCU, where he was the starting quarterback for three years. From 2023 to 2025, he averaged 3,209.0 passing yards, 23.7 touchdowns, and 11.0 interceptions per season. He had a 147.8 passer rating and completed 65.1% of his passes. His move to Indiana has been a success, as he has continued to perform at a high level.
Upcoming Challenges and Heisman Hopes
Hoover faces a tough schedule ahead, including games against Nebraska and Ohio State. Leinart believes that Hoover has a chance to make a run at the Heisman Trophy. However, the lack of national attention and hype has made it difficult for him to gain recognition. With the right performances, Hoover could change that narrative.
