The Herd with Colin Cowherd THE HERD - Hour 3 - Joel Klatt stops by The Herd, taking a look at Fernando Mendoza
Jan 20, 2026
Joel Klatt, a Fox Sports college football analyst and former collegiate quarterback, joins to discuss Indiana's historic National Championship under coach Curt Cignetti. Klatt argues it's the greatest coaching performance he's ever seen, highlighting how NIL and the transfer portal enabled this success. They delve into how Indiana's NFL-style approach and strategic game plan led to victory over Miami, as well as Fernando Mendoza's exceptional toughness, likening his play to legends like Elway and Luck. Klatt also shares insights on the upcoming season's top teams.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
College Football Has Matured
- College football has matured into a more pro-like product with older, smarter rosters and cleaner special teams play.
- Joel Klatt and Colin Cowherd say NIL, the transfer portal, and veteran QBs created higher-level strategy and parity.
Win With Coaching And Smart Recruiting
- Programs can compete without five-star classes by hiring the right coach and leveraging NIL and the portal.
- Build a plan and attract transfers and boosters rather than relying solely on star recruiting.
Indiana's Title Is Transformational
- Joel Klatt views Indiana's title as profoundly consequential because it proves any program can win with the portal and NIL.
- He calls this era a golden age with increased parity and better on-field product.