Fernando Mendoza: 'I probably cooked people's spread but my job is to win the game'

Bettors are always on the lookout for a backdoor cover. That’s exactly what they got in the Indiana Hoosiers‘ win over the Iowa Hawkeyes, for better or worse, when Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza took an intentional safety while running out the clock.

Indiana held a 20-13 lead with just seconds left. According to BetMGM, Indiana entered the game as a 7-point favorite. However, needing to snap the ball on fourth down, the Hoosiers wanted to avoid giving the ball back to Iowa with a chance to throw a Hail Mary. So, Mendoza scrambled back and took a safety after time had expired to end the game at 20-15, or a five-point difference, swinging what bet would have won in the final seconds.

After the game, Mendoza joked about the play. He’d acknowledge that some people may have had their bets messed up by it, but that’s also not his job to worry about.

“I didn’t want to ever put our team in jeopardy,” Fernando Mendoza said. “Maybe if I slide with one second left, there might be some quirk where we might have to punt it. I just wanted to get out of the safety, and I know I shouldn’t be saying this, I probably cooked people’s spreads and I really apologize for that. However, in that moment, my goal was to win the game.” 

For his part, Fernando Mendoza finished the game completing 13 of 23 passes for 233 yards and 2 touchdowns with an interception. That’s against a very talented Iowa defense. He also finished with 26 rushing yards. The safety would be ruled a team safety. Regardless, Mendoza is happy to walk away with the win.

“They aren’t happy,” Mendoza said. “But I definitely put my apologies out to them. For us, we are looking out for the Indiana moneyline, which is a win.”

Indiana has certainly done plenty of winning this season. The win over Iowa pumped them up to 5-0 on the season and 2-0 in Big Ten play. Once again, they look to be pretty clear contenders to make it to the College Football Playoff.

Now, the Hoosiers have a bye week. After that, they’ll once again face a major test, set to hit the road and take on the Oregon Ducks in what will be a showdown of two of the country’s best teams. That’s part of a run of Big Ten games where Indiana needs to adjust to having the target on its back.

---

DISCLAIMER: This site is 100% for entertainment purposes only and does not involve real money betting.

The content provided in this article is intended for entertainment purposes only. All views and opinions expressed are the authors and reflect their individual perspectives on sports, betting, and related topics. This content should not be considered professional betting advice or the official views of On3. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is experiencing issues related to gambling, seek help from a licensed health professional. This blog is not liable for any losses, damages, or consequences resulting from betting activities.

Bets and betting odds data are powered by BetMGM. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (available in the US), Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-270-7117 (MI), Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Must be 21+. Visit BetMGM.com for terms and conditions. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements.”