Pitt QB Heintschel named a semifinalist for Shaun Alexander freshman of the year

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PITTSBURGH – Pitt quarterback Mason Heintschel has been named one of 14 semifinalists for the 2025 Shaun Alexander freshman of the year award, presented annually by the Maxwell Football Club to the nation's most outstanding first-year player.

The award, now in its seventh year, honors a college football freshman who best embodies excellence in performance, leadership and character. Named after former Alabama and Seattle Seahawks star Shaun Alexander, past winners include Trevor Lawrence (Clemson), Will Anderson Jr. (Alabama), Brock Bowers (Georgia), Drake Maye (North Carolina) and Caleb Downs (Alabama/Ohio State) .

Heintschel has been electric since taking over as Pitt's starting quarterback in Week 6, leading the Panthers to a five-game winning streak and a No. 24 ranking in the College Football Playoff standings. Over that stretch, the true freshman has thrown for more than 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns while directing one of the nation's most productive offenses.

Pitt (7-2, 5-1 ACC) leads the nation with 200 points during its five-game win streak and ranks second nationally in total offense over that span. Heintschel also became the first true freshman since Jameis Winston in 2013 to record at least three touchdown passes and 300 passing yards in three of his first six career starts.

Finalists for the Shaun Alexander freshman of the year award will be announced Dec. 3, with the winner named Dec. 30. The formal presentation will take place at the Maxwell Football Club Awards Gala March 14, 2026, in Atlanta, Ga.

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