A Big Week for Michael Penix Jr.

Ever since the inception of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) in 2021, players are usually the ones who endorse brands. It’s not uncommon that fans will see their favorite players sharing a post urging fans to buy a new t-shirt from a brand they are working with, or even telling individuals about the great features of the vehicle they have been given. 

In return, sometimes these brands will post a photo or video of an athlete they have partnered with. However, they don’t usually create a campaign for them to win a coveted award.

This isn’t the case for Michael Penix Jr., though. 

Heisman Trophy hopeful

Just over a week ago, Adidas released an advertisement endorsing Penix for the Heisman. 

The video highlights Penix’s ability and demonstrates why he would make the perfect winner for the Heisman.

Sports media personality, Kenny Mayne, is heard narrating the video.

“The Heisman Trophy is annually awarded to the outstanding college football player whose performance epitomizes great ability, combined with diligence, perseverance, and hard work,” Mayne says.

The brand added a #Penix4Heisman hashtag in the caption in case it wasn’t clear their support was going to him.

Penix teamed up the Adidas earlier this year. Although, who knows if he thought the deal would include an advertisement for the Heisman?

“I couldn’t be happier to be teaming up with the Adidas family,” Penix said in October. “I’ve been in the three stripes my entire college career, and their support has meant a lot to me. Adidas has shown that they’re committed to student-athletes across the country. I’m thankful to be a part of their commitment.”

Another award for Penix

Aside from the public support from Adidas, Penix also received a prestigious award. He received the Most Valuable Player award of the 2023 Pac-12 Football Championship Game on Friday, December 1.

ESPN reporter Holly Rowe asked Penix what it means to him to have his teammates believe in him and to be the face of the Huskies.

“It means the world man,” Penix stated. “It’s all glory to God and 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 Pac-12 champs.”

She also complimented the offensive line and asked Penix what the team and the Huskies’ offensive line meant to Penix.

“My offensive line, they do a heck of a job, each and every day. ..Allowing me to have a clean pocket to be able to get the ball to my weapons, you know, it’s just a blessing to be able to have and I thank them each and every day for it,” Penix said. “I’m going to have to take them out somewhere sometime soon.”

Stay tuned for Saturday’s results

Penix is in the finals for the Heisman Trophy and is headed to New York this Saturday for the ceremony. He is among LSU QB Jayden Daniels, Oregon QB Bo Nix, and Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. So, keep an eye out to see if he is awarded this huge honor.

Victoria Jonach is an aspiring writer and media analyst fascinated by what kinds of activities players participate in off the football field. Growing up in New Jersey, she is a New York Giants fan and attends Rutgers University, pursuing a career in Journalism and Media Studies. She writes for FirstRoundMock.com covering anticipated draft picks and their acts of volunteerism, entrepreneurship, and other interests that shape these individuals.