UPDATE: The finalists for the prestigious 2025 Chicago Tribune Silver Football have been announced, stirring excitement ahead of the Big Ten championship game in Indianapolis tonight. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, Ohio State’s Julian Sayin, and Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith are in the spotlight as they lead their teams into this crucial matchup.
All three players have propelled their teams to an impressive 12-0 regular season, setting the stage for a showdown between the No. 1 Buckeyes and No. 2 Hoosiers. Their outstanding performances this season earned them the top votes for the Silver Football, an honor awarded to the Big Ten’s best player as determined by the conference’s head coaches. The winner will be revealed on December 5, 2025, during a special broadcast on the Big Ten Network.
Mendoza stands out with a staggering 32 touchdown passes, leading all FBS quarterbacks this season. His remarkable passing efficiency rating of 183.7 places him second nationally, just behind Sayin, who boasts an impressive 184.9 rating. Both quarterbacks have played a pivotal role in the success of their teams, which are not only vying for the Big Ten title but also potential spots in the College Football Playoff.
Sayin, in his first season as starting quarterback for the defending national champions, has thrown for 3,065 yards and maintained an efficient 78.9% completion rate. Meanwhile, Smith has showcased his skills as a dynamic wide receiver, averaging 85.6 receiving yards per game and tying for fifth in the nation with 11 receiving touchdowns. His contributions have solidified his place as a top contender for the Heisman Trophy.
Both teams are on a remarkable trajectory, with Ohio State enjoying a 16-game winning streak. Mendoza’s leadership has propelled Indiana to its first undefeated regular season since 1945, marking a historic achievement for the program.
As the championship game approaches, anticipation builds for not only the outcome of the match but also the Silver Football announcement next week. This year’s award marks its 101st year, continuing a tradition that began with Illinois’ Red Grange in 1924.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this trio’s performances will influence their futures, with the Heisman announcements and the College Football Playoff looming on the horizon. The stakes are high as these athletes prepare to make their mark on both a conference and national level.
Stay tuned for updates as the championship game unfolds and the Silver Football winner is revealed. This is a month that could define their careers and reshape the landscape of college football.
