Michael Penix Jr.
Michael Penix Jr.’s Washington teammates chant HEISMAN as he wins Pac-12 Championship MVP via ESPN College Football YouTube, screenshot

You can tell much about a person by how they accept victory and who they give credit to. In the case of college football sensation Michael Penix Jr., he credits his shining moment and team’s recent victory for the University of Washington team to God.

The senior helped lead Washington to their first College Football Playoff in seven years aver throwing over 319 yards and one touchdown against rival Oregon during the PAC-12 Championship. Now, they’ve been selected for their first playoff since 2016.

During an interview following Penix Jr.’s recognition as the PAC-12’s MVP of the year, the young athlete took a moment to recognize the source of his success on the field.

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“All glory to God,” said Penix Jr. “I know that resonates with everybody in here. We’re just super blessed and super excited for this opportunity to be able to come out as the last PAC-12 champs.”

Penix Jr. is very open about his faith, having said in the past that he gives all credit “to the man upstairs and thank God for everything.”

“He put me through and allowing me to get to the spot I am today.”

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Previously at Indiana University, Penix experienced a series of abrupt season-ending injuries, leading to his transfer to Washington before the 2022 season. Penix revealed moments of vulnerability, describing times he cried out in prayer for protection on game days.

In a statement about his decision to play another season at Washington in 2023, Penix expressed deep gratitude, thanking God for the opportunity to continue playing the sport he loves.

“I always have parents that help me understand; it’s not always about me; things are bigger than me, so I do it for a bigger purpose.”