Mason Heintschel's record-setting day shows why Pitt can compete in ACC

He is also the first quarterback since Joe Burrow at LSU in 2019 to throw for at least 450 yards, seven touchdowns and no interceptions in a game. 

Heintschel arrived at Pitt prior to the 2025 season as a relatively unknown recruit that slipped through the cracks, but immediately made a strong impression on the team's coaching staff. So much so that he took over the starting job midway through the season and played extremely well as a freshman. He completed 63.6% of his passes with 16 touchdowns and eight interceptions, helping Pitt go 6-2 down the stretch run of the regular season, and eventually qualify for a bowl game. 

It was such a strong showing that Miami tried to approach him to get him to enter the transfer portal before eventually settling on former Duke quarterback Darian Mensah. That irked Pitt coach Pat Narduzzi, who later brought that information to light and pointed out they were able to keep Miami away and keep Heintschel at Pitt.

That is great news for the Panthers because Heintshel looks like he might have the goods to be a top college quarterback, both now and in the near future.

The way the transfer portal and NIL have changed team-building in college sports, it is becoming increasingly rare for teams to find and develop a long-term answer at any position, let alone quarterback, over several years. 

There is still some benefit in doing that if you can find the right player, especially as it relates to understanding a system and building chemistry within an offense. Given the importance of the position and the impact a good quarterback can make, it could be a massive development for Pitt. Especially in a conference like the ACC that remains extremely winnable.