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Rutgers pays $1.55 million, reportedly, to lose to UMass - a 29.5-point underdog
nytimes.com • • general
Key Points:
- UMass ended a 16-game losing streak with a historic 37-21 upset over Rutgers, despite being 29.5-point underdogs, marking their biggest win against a Power 4 program since 1978.
- The Minutemen dominated in all aspects, forcing five turnovers, outrushing Rutgers 200-30, and featuring a standout performance from QB William “Pop” Watson, who threw for 197 yards and three touchdowns.
- This victory was the first for UMass head coach Joe Harasymiak, a former Rutgers defensive coordinator, and represents a major turnaround from their winless 2025 season.
- Rutgers struggled significantly, failing to establish a running game and suffering a heavy defeat despite strong individual performances from receiver K.J. Duff, who had nine catches for 196 yards and three touchdowns.
- The loss raises concerns about Rutgers' future under coach Greg Schiano, who has a $17.3 million buyout clause and has yet to lead the team to a bowl game since his 2020 return.
