Former Virginia Tech QB Pop Watson leads new team to shocking upset
What a debut for Pop Watson with his new school.
PISCATAWAY, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 3: In an unexpected turn of events, former Virginia Tech quarterback William "Pop" Watson III led his new team, the Massachusetts Minutemen, to a shocking victory over the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. This remarkable feat occurred on September 3, 2026, at SHI Stadium in Piscataway, New Jersey. Watson, who spent three seasons at Virginia Tech, transferred to UMass after the departure of coach Brent Pry, who later joined Virginia Tech as defensive coordinator under new head coach James Franklin.
Despite being a redshirted freshman in 2023, Watson immediately made an impact, completing 19 of 22 passes for 197 yards and three touchdowns in the game, while also contributing 40 yards on the ground. The Minutemen's victory, a 21-7 win over the Scarlet Knights, was a turning point for both teams, as Virginia Tech fans expressed support for Watson and UMass, recognizing that the Hokies were in a stronger position under Franklin's leadership.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
