PISCATAWAY, N.J. – Head coach Greg Schiano announced the spring award winners for the Scarlet Knights Friday at the Scarlet-White Game, presented by PNC.
 
Frank R. Burns Award – TE Matt Alaimo
Named after former Scarlet Knight All-America quarterback Frank Burns and awarded to the player who demonstrates extraordinary mental and physical toughness during the spring.
 
Alaimo has played in 33 games for the Scarlet Knights the previous three seasons, totaling 18 receptions for 133 yards. A two-time Academic All-Big Ten selection, the Paramus, New Jersey, native played scholastically at St. Joseph Regional for current offensive line coach Augie Hoffmann.
 
Mark Mills Second Effort Award – OL Ireland Brown
Named in memory of former Scarlet Knight running back Mark Mills and awarded to the offensive player who through determination, dedication and hard work has shown the most improvement during the offseason and spring practices.

Brown switched to offensive line last season and earned six starts at left guard. From Jamaica, New York, he collected Academic All-Big Ten honors in 2021 and was part of an offensive line that rushed for five touchdowns in the win at Indiana and for 230 yards with no sacks permitted to defeat Illinois.
 
Douglas A. Smith Award – LB Deion Jennings
Named in memory of former Scarlet Knight defensive tackle Doug Smith and awarded to the defensive player who through determination, dedication and hard work has shown the most improvement during the offseason and spring practices.
 
Jennings saw action in all 13 games last year, including a tackle-for-loss in the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl. Now in his fifth year in the program, the Sicklerville, New Jersey, has played in 34 career games with 65 tackles and three passes defended.
 
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