NCAAF

California transfer QB Fernando Mendoza commits to Indiana

If it worked once, why not go back to the well? I’m referring, of course, to Indiana signing a tall quarterback from the transfer portal. The Hoosiers struck gold with Kurtis Rourke this season, who, like Mendoza, is a 6-foot-5 signal-caller with passing prowess. It’s unrealistic to expect the former Golden Bear to replicate Rourke’s 2024 campaign, but after throwing for 3,004 yards, 16 touchdowns and six interceptions this year, Mendoza should succeed under Curt Cignetti.

NBA

Heat SG Dru Smith out for season with torn Achilles tendon

The Heat are excellent at uncovering undrafted gems and turning them into rotation players. Smith qualifies as another success story for Miami, as he’s averaging 6.3 points over 19.1 minutes per game this season. Unfortunately, the Heat will have to look elsewhere to fill the 26-year-old’s spot in the lineup.

As tough as this injury is on Miami, it’s significantly more damaging for Smith. The guard was inching close to a guaranteed deal with the franchise, but now that’ll have to wait — if it ever comes.