After posting one of the most prolific passing seasons in ACC history, UNC freshman quarterback Sam Howell was recognized Tuesday as the ACC Rookie and Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Howell led the conference with 3,347 yards through the air and 35 touchdown passes–a number that currently ranks fourth in the history of the entire conference. Only  Ohio State’s Justin Fields and LSU’s Joe Burrow–the current Heisman Trophy favorite–have matched Howell’s 35 touchdowns while also throwing seven or fewer interceptions.

The former Sun Valley High School star was also named ACC Rookie of the Week following six of the Tar Heels’ 12 games played.

He becomes the first UNC player to win ACC Rookie of the Year since current cornerbacks coach Dre Bly won the award back in 1996.

 

 

 

 

Photo via Dakota Moyer

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