Bob Baffert Racehorse Named After Fernando Mendoza Following Heisman Trophy Speech

Tom Ryan, the managing partner of SF Bloodstock and the racing manager for SF Racing, posted Wednesday that one of his syndicate's colts is being named "Mendoza" in honor of Indiana quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza.

Legendary trainer Bob Baffert regularly partners with SF Bloodstock, approving and buying horses in conjunction with investors compiled by Ryan.

Mendoza is the son of sire Gun Runner—who finished third at the Kentucky Derby in 2016 and won the Breeders' Cup Classic in 2017—and champion filly Songbird, who won 13 of 15 career races.

Indiana's Mendoza threw for 2,980 yards, 33 touchdowns and six interceptions this season, leading Indiana to a perfect 13-0 record, a Big Ten title and a berth in the College Football Playoff as the top overall seed.