Three Finalists Compete for 2025 Chicago Tribune Silver Football

The finalists for the 2025 Chicago Tribune Silver Football have been announced, with Fernando Mendoza from Indiana University, and Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith, both from Ohio State University, vying for the prestigious award. These three players have displayed remarkable talent throughout the season, contributing to their teams achieving a perfect 12-0 regular season record and a spot in the Big Ten Championship game. The matchup will take place on December 2, 2025, in Indianapolis, where the top-ranked Buckeyes will face the second-ranked Hoosiers.

This award, which recognizes the Big Ten’s best player, is determined by a vote from the conference’s head coaches. The winner will be revealed on the Big Ten Network on Tuesday. The Silver Football has a storied history, with its inception dating back to 1924, when Illinois’ Red Grange received the first award.

Both Mendoza and Sayin have excelled in passing efficiency, with Mendoza leading all FBS quarterbacks with 32 touchdown passes, while Sayin closely follows with 30 touchdown passes. Sayin boasts an impressive 184.9 passing efficiency rating, ranking first nationally, while Mendoza is a close second with a rating of 183.7. Smith, a standout wide receiver, has contributed significantly with an average of 85.6 receiving yards per game and is tied for fifth nationally with 11 receiving touchdowns.

Mendoza, a redshirt junior transfer from California, has completed 72% of his passes, amassing 2,758 yards with five interceptions and adding six rushing touchdowns. His exceptional performance has led Indiana to its first undefeated regular season since 1945.

In his debut season as a starter for the defending national champion Buckeyes, Sayin has completed 78.9% of his passes for 3,065 yards, also with five interceptions. He has surpassed 300 passing yards in six games and achieved over 80% completion in five games.

On the other hand, Smith has continued his impressive trajectory following a successful freshman season. He has recorded 72 catches for 942 yards and 11 touchdowns in just 11 games, making him the fastest player in Ohio State history to reach 2,000 career receiving yards, 100 catches, and 25 touchdown catches.

As this talented trio prepares for a pivotal month ahead, they will not only compete for the Silver Football but also aim for the Heisman Trophy, with announcements scheduled for next week. Both Ohio State and Indiana are anticipated to secure first-round byes in the upcoming College Football Playoff.

The Silver Football represents one of the highest honors in college football, and this year’s finalists exemplify the exceptional talent within the Big Ten Conference. As they take the field in Indianapolis, all eyes will be on Mendoza, Sayin, and Smith as they seek to leave their mark in this storied tradition.