Cal QB Fernando Mendoza is looking forward to the match against Miami

Cal quarterback Fernando Mendoza has every right to hold a grudge against the Miami football program. Like any kid growing up in Miami, Mendoza always dreamed of playing for the Miami Hurricanes at the next level.

Mendoza attended Columbus High School, the same school that produced Mario Cristobal and other Miami greats such as Alonzo Highsmith and Carlos Huerta. Mendoza attended every football camp and showcase he could, especially those hosted by Florida schools like UM and Florida State.

Unfortunately, despite Mendoza's best efforts, his dream never came true. The three-star prospect only received six scholarship offers, including one from nearby FIU. Mendoza had originally committed to play for Yale, but after reconsidering, he chose the influential conference school that saw something in him: California.

Mendoza was rightfully heartbroken when he learned that the Miami Hurricanes, then led by Manny Diaz, didn't think he was good enough. At ACC Media Days ahead of the 2024 season, Mendoza spoke about that feeling.

“(They said) we could take you as a companion… that lit a fire under me. And that was a sad night, it was kind of a realization, like, hey… I'm not going to be a Miami football player.

– Cal QB Fernando Mendoza

Mendoza has since moved on. While many athletes in his position would never forgive Miami for passing them up, Mendoza still has great respect for the program. Mendoza told reporters that he was snubbed from both Miami and Florida State:

“We've done a few photo shoots in the past… someone told me to hold the spear and pretend to break it, or turn the U upside down… I would never do anything like that.”

– Cal QB Fernando Mendoza

Mendoza took advantage of his opportunity with the Cal Golden Bears with flying colors. As a true freshman in 2023, he led the program to its first bowl game since 2019. As a sophomore in 2024, he led his team to a 3-1 record in four games, with his biggest accomplishment being a road win against Auburn.

With Miami and Cal now rivals within the ACC, they will become regular opponents, starting with a matchup at Berkeley on Saturday. This allows Mendoza to host his home team in what will undoubtedly be the most memorable game of his entire career.

At a media release this week, beat reporter Cody Henderson of The League Winners asked Mendoza how he was feeling before the game.

“My body feels great, my mind feels great, especially after the bye week…So the whole offense is very excited, the team is very excited and I'm very excited.”

– Cal QB Fernando Mendoza

Despite Mendoza's excitement, things haven't been easy for him lately. His offensive line has given up 13 sacks in the last two games, and with Rueben Bain Jr. set to return to Miami's defense, it could be a long day for Mendoza and his offensive line.

FanDuel lists Miami as a 10.5-point favorite against Cal. While the Hurricanes should be able to take care of business in Berkeley, Fernando Mendoza will look to pull off an upset that he will remember for the rest of his life.