UConn was the winner of the Southwick Jug as they defeated UMass on Friday night at Rentschler Field.

By Savannah Cote. Photos by Savannah Cote and Scott Sulkazi

Rivalry games bring out something extra, and Friday night was no exception as UConn and UMass renewed their rivalry for the first time since 2024. In front of 32,106 fans at Rentschler Field, the Huskies used a dominant second quarter, a special teams touchdown, and a strong overall performance to secure a 35-16 victory over the Minutemen.

UMass opened the scoring with a 24-yard field goal to take a 3-0 lead in the first quarter. UConn responded with a touchdown pass from Kalieb Osbourne to Shamar Porter, followed by the extra point, giving the Huskies a 7-3 advantage.

UConn seized control in the second quarter, scoring twice to extend its lead. JD Willoughby hauled in a touchdown reception before Cyncir Bowers broke free for a 70-yard rushing touchdown. The Huskies outscored the Minutemen 14-0 in the quarter and carried a 21-3 advantage into halftime.

The Huskies continued to build on their lead in the third quarter with a special teams play that energized the home crowd. Shamar Porter blocked a UMass punt and recovered the ball for a touchdown, adding seven points to UConn’s lead. The Huskies held the Minutemen scoreless through the first three quarters, entering the final period ahead 28-3.

UMass attempted to mount a comeback in the fourth quarter, putting 13 points on the board. UConn answered with a rushing touchdown from Osbourne, however, keeping the Minutemen at a distance and securing the 35-16 win.

UConn’s offense finished with 455 total yards, including 282 rushing yards and 173 receiving yards. The Huskies also recorded 173 passing yards and two passing touchdowns, showcasing their ability to move the ball through the air and on the ground.

Bowers contributed 136 all-purpose yards, including his 70-yard touchdown run, while Osbourne provided a significant contribution to the Huskies’ offensive production. UConn’s ability to generate explosive plays helped the team maintain its advantage throughout the contest.

Defensively, the Huskies made key stops and applied pressure to disrupt UMass’ offensive rhythm. Holding the Minutemen to just three points through the first three quarters proved crucial as UConn built a lead that it would not surrender.

With 32,106 fans in attendance, the Huskies closed out a convincing victory in a rivalry matchup that had been absent from the schedule since 2024. UConn’s second-quarter scoring surge and third-quarter special teams touchdown proved decisive, allowing the Huskies to celebrate a 35-16 win in front of their home crowd.

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