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Pop Watson leads Massachusetts past Rutgers in season opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 2:53 AM

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

Pop Watson leads Massachusetts past Rutgers in season opener

Summary

Former Virginia Tech quarterback William “Pop” Watson made his debut for the University of Massachusetts on September 3, 2026, leading the Minutemen to a victory against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at SHI Stadium in Piscataway, New Jersey. Watson completed 19 of 22 pass attempts for 197 yards and three touchdowns while adding 40 rushing yards on six carries. The win marks a change in fortune for the University of Massachusetts program, which had lost 16 consecutive games prior to this matchup. Watson spent three seasons at Virginia Tech before entering the transfer portal and joining the Minutemen. He previously started for the Hokies in their 2024 season finale, where he threw for 254 yards and accounted for two total touchdowns in a win against Virginia.

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By the Numbers

•William Watson III completed 19 of 22 passes for 197 yards and three touchdowns.
•The University of Massachusetts defeated the Rutgers Scarlet Knights on September 3, 2026.
•Watson added 40 rushing yards on six carries during the game.
•The victory ends a 16-game losing streak for the University of Massachusetts football program.

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