T.Y. Harding gets UMass off to fast start as Minutemen win consecutive games for 1st time since 2023

Amherst, Mass. (AP) — T.Y. Harding delivered an early rush to the Massachusetts offense, catching a 49-yard pass in the first minute of action. Moments later, he showcased his speed with an 82-yard punt-return touchdown. The Minutemen (2-0) claimed their first back-to-back wins since 2023 by defeating Sacred Heart 37-10 on Saturday.

UMass broke a 16-game losing streak with a 37-21 victory over Rutgers, their opponent in the opener. The team also followed up the win against the FCS Pioneers (0-2) with a swift 37-10 victory. The last time the Minutemen won consecutive games was during the 2023 season, which included wins over Army and Merrimack.

Quarterback William Watson III guided the team to a promising start, connecting with Harding on a crucial deep-ball down the middle for the game's first points. Watson completed 9-of-10 passes for 152 yards and added 40 yards and a touchdown on the ground. Jahmad Harmon continued the momentum with a 34-yard interception return for a touchdown, pushing the Minutemen ahead 37-0 in the second half. Another interception by Harmon later in the game turned into a 37-10 halftime lead.

Reece Adkins contributed with a rushing touchdown. The Pioneers managed only one touchdown late in the final quarter, a 1-yard run by Cole Snider. Sacred Heart's next game is scheduled for next Saturday against Elon in a Coastal Athletic Association matchup.