Reitz senior quarterback Paul McIntosh has been named Mr. Football in the state of Indiana. McIntosh becomes the first Evansville player in the 16 year history of the award to win the honor. He's also the first player south of Bloomington to win the state's top award. Rex Grossman, who quarterbacked at Bloomington South, took home the trophy in 1998.
Mr. Football is sponsored by the Indianapolis Star and is voted upon by coaches and media members throughout the state. McIntosh won in a landslide, receiving 143 votes out of 193 ballots. Franklin Central running back Darius Willis was the runner-up with ten votes.
McIntosh's versatility made him virtually unstoppable for Reitz's opponents. He passed for 2,292 yards and 22 touchdowns, compared to just six interceptions, while rushing for 1,621 yards and 34 TD's.
McIntosh accounted for 250 yards and five touchdowns (three running and two passing) in the Panthers 33-14 victory over Lowell in the Class 4A state championship game. It was Reitzs first sanctioned state title. The Panthers finished the season a perfect 15-0.
"This award wouldnt be possible without my teammates," said a very humble and gracious McIntosh at an award ceremony at Reitz High School on Wednesday morning. "I wish I could break the trophy in pieces and give one to each of my teammates. They helped get me to where I am today. Football is the ultimate team game."
Mr. Football is the most prestigious award on McIntoshs very impressive resume. He was also named First-Team All-State, the Gatorade Football Player of the Year in Indiana and the top quarterback in the state in the Indianapolis Stars position awards.
