The Football Writers Association of America named UNC quarterback Sam Howell as one of its seven semifinalists for its annual Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award.

A revelation for head coach Mack Brown and the Tar Heels this season behind center, Howell has already been named the ACC Rookie of the Year after posting one of the greatest passing seasons by any quarterback in UNC history.

Through his first 12 games, Howell has thrown for 3,347 yards and 35 touchdowns. His 35 touchdown passes are a UNC record and ranks fourth all-time in ACC history, not to mention ranking fourth in the entire country this season.

Howell also broke the FBS record for touchdown passes by a true freshman, which was set at 30 last year by current Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who was the FWAA Freshman of the Year in 2018.

Other semifinalists for this year’s award include: Jayden Daniels (QB, Arizona State), Kedon Slovis (QB, USC), Azeez Ojulari (LB, Georgia), Kenneth Gainwell (RB, Memphis), Derek Stingley Jr. (DB, LSU) and Gregory Rousseau (DL, Miami).

 

 

 

Photo via Dakota Moyer

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