UMass defeats Rutgers 37-21 in college football season opener

UMass defeated Rutgers 37-21 on Thursday night in Piscataway, New Jersey, marking the first time the Minutemen have won against a power conference opponent. UMass entered the game as a 29.5-point underdog, having finished the 2025 season with an 0-12 record and riding a 16-game losing streak. Quarterback William Watson III threw three touchdown passes in the first half to build the lead. Rutgers struggled with ball security, as quarterback Dylan Lonergan committed four turnovers, including three interceptions. This loss is the first for UMass head coach Joe Harasymiak against his former team, where he previously served as defensive coordinator. Rutgers now turns its focus to a road game against Boston College on September 11.

• 1:23 AMYahoo Sports — After a winless 2025, UMass beats a power conference foe for the first time as a 29.5-point underdog against Rutgers
• 1:21 AMYahoo Sports — Massive underdog UMass ravages Rutgers