UMass Achieves Upset Victory Over Rutgers in Season Opener

The UMass Minutemen stunned the Rutgers Scarlet Knights with a 37-21 victory on the road, marking a significant upset in the opening week of the 2026 college football season.

This win was UMass's first since October 2024 and their first against an FBS opponent since 1978. The Minutemen, who ended last season winless at 0-12, secured their first season-opening victory since 2023.

After a tied first quarter, UMass dominated the second quarter, scoring 17 points while holding Rutgers scoreless, leading 24-7 at halftime. UMass quarterback William Watson III completed 19 of 22 passes for 197 yards and three touchdowns. Despite a late push from Rutgers, which included two touchdowns in the fourth quarter, UMass maintained their lead. Rutgers now faces a challenging schedule ahead, including a matchup against Boston College next week.