Dec. 2, 2013

PFLMajorAwards

Senior quarterback Mason Mills (Coronado, Calif.) has been named the 2013 Pioneer Football League Offensive Player of the Year after leading San Diego to an 8-3 record this season. Mills, who was named one of 20 finalists for The Sports Network's Walter Payton Award, completed 66 percent (256-of-388) of his passes for 3,463 yards and 35 touchdowns.

"First of all I would say it is very well deserved," said head coach Dale Lindsey. "Any time you lead the team to what would have been the championship, it has to be done by somebody, generally the quarterback, that carries you. And Mason certainly carried our offense and team with his leadership."

Mills' 35 touchdown passes were third most in the FCS through the end of the regular season. He also ranked among the nation's top 15 in passing efficiency (168.1, 5th), passing yards per game (314.8, 7th) and completion percentage (13th). He had a season-best 413 yards passing in a win over Mercer, and totaled two games with 5 touchdown passes (Dayton & Butler).

A fourth-year starter, Mills is the Toreros' all-time leader in three passing departments - 11,099 yards on 887-of-1,338 passing. The 11,099 passing yards ranks second all-time among PFL passers, while his 95 touchdown passes ranks second at USD to Josh Johnson's 113 total (2004-2007). Mills becomes the sixth Torero student-athlete to be named the league's Offensive Player of the Year, and the first since 2008 (John Matthews).

The other PFL Major Awards went to Marist defensive end Terrence Fede (Defensive Player of the Year), Marist head coach Jim Parady (Coach of the Year), Mercer quarterback John Russ (Freshman Offensive Player of the Year) and Stetson defensive back Donald Payne (Freshman Defensive Player of the Year).

The All-PFL teams will be announced tomorrow.