Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza Doesn't Hold Back on Julian Sayin

The Ohio State Buckeyes are heading into a pivotal matchup against the Indiana Hoosiers in the Big Ten Championship Game.

The Buckeyes and Hoosiers are both undefeated, playing at a high level on offense and defense. One thing that has stood out for both teams is their quarterback play.

Ahead of their clash, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza shared his thoughts on Buckeyes quarterback Julian Sayin.

“I really respect Julian. He is so effective, and he fits that (Ohio State) offense perfectly,” Mendoza said. “Every quarterback prides himself on completion percentage, and his completion percentage is out of this world.”

Sayin has played at an elite level, completing 78.9 percent of his passes for 3,065 yards, 30 touchdowns, and five interceptions. He is in the middle of the Heisman race with Mendoza, who has also been one of the best players in college football.

Mendoza has completed 72 percent of his passes for 2,758 yards, 32 touchdowns, and five interceptions. He has also rushed for 243 yards and six touchdowns.

While the quarterbacks have both played at a high level, this is a matchup of two of the best defenses in college football. Ohio State has allowed the fewest points per game at 7.8 points and yards per game at 203 yards, but Indiana isn't far behind.

The Hoosiers have allowed the second-fewest points per game at 10.9 and the fourth-fewest yards per game at 251.8.

This game could come down to which defense is able to contain the Heisman-caliber quarterback the best.

A key for Ohio State's offense is getting the ball to their playmakers, Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate. Through 11 games, Smith has 72 receptions for 942 yards and 11 touchdowns, while Tate has 44 receptions for 793 yards and eight touchdowns in nine games.

If Sayin can get the ball to Smith and Tate, the Buckeyes' offense should be able to outplay Indiana's stout defense.

This is a big game for the Buckeyes and Hoosiers, as whoever comes out on top will likely be the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff. Ohio State already took down Michigan, and beating Indiana would be a great next step on their road to repeat as National Champions.