Pitt football improved to 5-0 following its thrilling win over Virginia Tech. However, the victory also came with devastating news, as quarterback Mason Heintschel’s breakout season has come to a heartbreaking end. Pittsburgh head coach Pat Narduzzi has now released a statement addressing the significant loss for his team.

An MRI confirmed that Heintschel suffered an ACL tear in his right knee, which will sideline him for the remainder of the season. Narduzzi subsequently confirmed the devastating news, describing the team as “heartbroken” for Heintschel while weighing in on the quarterback’s resilience and determination.

“Mason Heintschel suffered a torn ACL at Virginia Tech and will miss the remainder of the season. We’re heartbroken for Mason, but he’s a resilient young man. We know he’ll attack his recovery with the same determination he brings to our building every day, and our entire program will be behind him every step of the way,” Narduzzi said.

“His leadership and ability to help coach up our quarterbacks will remain important to us as we continue to rally together and move forward,” Narduzzi added.

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Against Virginia Tech, early in the third quarter, Heintschel scrambled on a play and moved toward the sideline while attempting to make a play with his legs. He was eventually brought down by two Virginia Tech defenders, and the awkward tackle left him on the ground in visible pain.

Heintschel immediately grabbed his right knee. He was unable to put any weight on his injured leg after the play and required assistance from Pitt’s medical staff.

The star quarterback was initially helped toward the medical tent for further evaluation before eventually being escorted to the locker room. The quarterback did not return to the game.

The timing of the injury makes the setback particularly painful for Pitt, as Heintschel had emerged as one of the most productive young quarterbacks in college football. Through five games, the sophomore had thrown for 1,304 yards and 14 touchdowns while completing 66.2% of his passes.