UConn ends losing streak with victory over UMass

In Amherst, Massachusetts, on Saturday, November 30, 2024, UConn faced UMass in a tightly contested football game. Joe Fagnano, the starting quarterback for UConn, showcased his talent by throwing three touchdown passes, leading the Huskies to a narrow victory over the Minutemen with a score of 47-42. The game was marked by aggressive scoring from both teams, highlighted by Fagnano's critical touchdown throw to Jasaiah Gathings with just 12 seconds left in the third quarter, shifting the momentum in favor of UConn. Cam Edwards was another standout, running for 142 yards and contributing significantly to the Huskies' offensive success. UConn built a substantial lead early in the fourth quarter, as Fagnano connected with Edwards for a short touchdown, extending their advantage to 40-28. This was UConn’s largest lead of the game and proved crucial as they sought to secure their first winning season in over a decade. UMass, however, was not about to back down easily. The Minutemen responded with a strong effort, scoring two touchdowns of their own in the final quarter while attempting to mount a comeback. A noteworthy performance came from UMass's starting quarterback AJ Hairston, who also threw for three touchdowns during the game. As the clock wound down to the end of the game, UMass attempted to instill some last-minute excitement by throwing a touchdown pass to T.Y. Harding. However, with only 36 seconds remaining on the clock, their efforts fell short, and despite a successful onside kick attempt, UConn regained possession and effectively ran out the remaining seconds. The outcome not only concluded the regular season for both teams but symbolized a promising turnaround for UConn, marking their return to winning form after years of struggle. The Huskies finished the season with an 8-4 record, the first time they have been above .500 since 2010, when they also concluded their season with an 8-4 record while competing in the Big East Conference. In stark contrast, UMass ended the year with a disappointing 2-10 record, extending their streak of losing seasons to 14 consecutive years. This latest performance has raised questions about the future of the Minutemen program as they seek to rebuild and improve on their past results. The championship hopes that teams often carry into every season have faded for UMass, which last had a winning record in 2010, when they were part of the Colonial Athletic Association. Overall, the game was not just a display of athletic prowess but also reflected significant emotional stakes for both teams as they closed out their seasons.