University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Turner Named Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Week
11/25/2025 10:00:00 AM | Football
PITTSBURGH – On the heels of a career day in Pitt's 42-28 win at No. 16 Georgia Tech, running back Ja'Kyrian Turner has been named the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Week, the Maxwell Football Club announced today.
Turner is the second Panther to earn this honor this season. Quarterback Mason Heintschel was named the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Week earlier this year for his play in his first career start vs. Boston College.
The Wildwood, FL native became Pitt's first 200-yard rusher since Israel Abanikanda in 2022, rushing for 201 yards and a touchdown in the win. He capped off his career day with a game-sealing 56-yard rushing score.
Turner led all ACC players last week in rushing yards (201), rushing average (9.6), and all-purpose yards (213). His rushing and all-purpose yardage totals were both single-game highs among all ACC freshmen this season.
His 201 yards on the ground were the most by a Pitt freshman since Qadree Ollison (207 vs. Youngstown State) in 2015 and the third most by a Pitt freshman since at least 1995 (James Conner, 229 vs. Bowling Green). It also stands as the most by a Pitt freshman against a Power Four opponent.
Turner and the Panthers return to Acrisure Stadium this Saturday, November 29, to host No. 13 Miami as they seek a berth in the ACC Championship Game on Senior Day.
