Moments after a record-setting performance against NC State, pitt_athletics quarterback Mason Heintschel had one more pass to complete. The cleats he wore while throwing for a freshman school record 423 yards bore the words “63 Strong” — a reminder of an unimaginable tragedy in his small hometown of Oregon, Ohio, and a testament to his commitment to never let the memory of a friend fade. One of his best friends, Lukas Mason, was struck by a car while riding his bicycle just outside of Clay High School in the summer after seventh grade. The 13-year-old died the next day. The loss of a joyful boy with an innate ability to make others laugh rocked the town just east of Toledo. Mason’s response, then and now, offers clues to how he has handled his meteoric rise — from anonymous third-stringer to national star in less than six weeks while guiding Pitt to five straight wins and its first national ranking of the season — with such grace and poise. “Your biggest fear when you lose a chil...