Sophomore Heintschel, 2 WPIAL players named Pitt captains

Pitt will have a sophomore captain for the first time since quarterback Tyler Palko in 2004. Quarterback Mason Heintschel was chosen by teammates as one of four captains for this year’s Pitt football team. A true freshman last season, Heintschel threw for 2,354 yards and 16 touchdowns and added two rushing scores. The Ohio native had been a leadership presence in practice and was discussed as a captain before the team voted. Joining him are LB Braylan Lovelace, DB Cruce Brookins, and OT Ryan Baer, two of whom played in the WPIAL. Pitt opens Sept. 5 against Miami (Ohio).