BYU football: Pitta among John Mackey Award finalists

BYU senior tight end Dennis Pitta is one of three finalists for the 2009 John Mackey Award, the Nassau County (N.Y.) Sports Commission announced Monday.

The Mackey Award is given annually to the nation's top tight end. It's an honor that recognizes not only on-field achievement but also good sportsmanship, good academic standing and leadership abilities.

Dorin Dickerson, a senior at Pittsburgh, and Aaron Hernandez, a junior at Florida, are the other semifinalists.

The winner of the award will be announced during the Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards show live on Dec. 10 on ESPN.

Pitta is No. 1 in the nation among tight ends in receiving yards (753), total catches (55), yards per catch (13.69), yards per game (68.45) and catches per game (5). He is second in touchdowns (7).

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