The Indiana Hoosiers are riding high after capturing the national championship, and now they're cashing in on one of the sweetest perks of being college football's top team: a visit to the White House later this month. But while the celebration is set to be a memorable affair, one of the program's biggest stars might be a notable absence.

Former Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who now suits up for the Las Vegas Raiders, faces a tough decision about whether to join his old teammates for the prestigious trip. According to a report from USA TODAY Sports, the scheduling conflict comes down to a key date on the NFL calendar. "I believe May 11 is the first day of OTAs," Mendoza explained. "If it is on the first day of OTAs, like I said, I'm on the bottom of the totem pole here. I gotta prove myself. I can't miss practice... I'm a rookie. I don't think that's a good look."

It's a classic rookie dilemma: balancing the honor of celebrating a national title with the grind of earning a spot in the pros. New Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak is sure to appreciate Mendoza's dedication and team-first mentality, though it remains to be seen if Las Vegas would grant an exception for such a unique occasion. For now, Mendoza seems focused on putting in the work, knowing that in the NFL, every rep counts—especially for a newcomer trying to climb that totem pole.

Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti is expected to lead the Hoosiers delegation to the White House, with or without his former quarterback. Whether Mendoza makes the trip or stays behind to hit the practice field, one thing is clear: the championship glow is still strong in Bloomington, and this visit is just another chapter in a storybook season.