UMass defeats Rutgers 37-21 in college football season opener

The UMass Minutemen defeated the Rutgers Scarlet Knights 37-21 on Thursday night to open the college football season. The result marks the first win for UMass since October 2024. Rutgers quarterback Dylan Lonergan finished the game with 242 passing yards and two touchdowns, but his performance was hindered by three interceptions and a lost fumble. Conversely, UMass quarterback William Watson completed 86.3% of his passes for 197 yards and three touchdowns, while running back Curtis Kimmons added 78 rushing yards and a score on 11 carries. Following the loss, social media criticism emerged regarding the status of Rutgers within the Big Ten conference. Rutgers will travel to face the Boston College Eagles next Friday, while UMass is scheduled to play the Sacred Heart Pioneers at home next Saturday.

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