BOSTON — The University of Connecticut (UConn) football team is returning to the Fenway Bowl, a significant milestone following their triumph over North Carolina last year. The Huskies secured a 27-14 victory at the historic ballpark, a moment celebrated by players and fans alike. Senior Durante Jones encapsulated the team’s spirit postgame, stating, “We’re just like everybody else. We might not be in a conference, but we got the fans.” This sentiment highlights UConn’s evolution into a respected program within college football.
As the Huskies prepare for their second consecutive appearance in the Fenway Bowl, they are keen to build upon their recent successes. UConn has experienced a remarkable turnaround, transitioning from a team that struggled to gain recognition to one that is now competing at a higher level. Athletic Director David Benedict expressed his satisfaction with the program’s progress, remarking, “If you asked four years ago, we were just hoping to get to a bowl game. Now we’re worried about what the weather is?”
The Huskies’ newfound status comes with typical challenges associated with success, including coaching changes and player transfers. Following the departure of Jim Mora to Colorado State, UConn has hired Jason Candle, who is already making waves in recruiting. Candle’s ability to attract talent from his previous roster at Toledo, including quarterback Bo Polston, is a promising sign for the program’s future.
Building Momentum at Fenway
The Fenway Bowl is not just another game for UConn; it represents an opportunity to solidify their standing in college football. Benedict emphasized the significance of this bowl game, stating, “This is a big-time bowl game. The folks at the Wasabi Fenway Bowl do a fantastic job. When you’re playing in a Power 4 slot, that means something.”
The match against Army will be a test for a UConn team that has faced various player departures, notably quarterback Joe Fagnano. Regardless of the outcome, the experience and exposure gained from participating in high-profile games will contribute to UConn’s long-term aspirations.
Candle is focused on revitalizing the program, emphasizing the need to adapt and grow. His recruitment strategy aims to tap into the New Jersey talent pool, with the potential appointment of Nunzio Campanile as offensive coordinator further enhancing UConn’s prospects. Campanile, who has a strong coaching lineage and previous success with quarterbacks, could open doors for UConn in ways not previously explored.
While UConn may field a younger team next season, Candle’s expertise in recruiting high school talent could lessen the program’s reliance on transfers. The emphasis will shift towards building a sustainable and competitive program, rather than simply filling gaps in the roster.
Future Prospects and Conference Realignment
The ongoing realignment of college football conferences remains a pressing issue for UConn. Positioned between the Group of Six and the lower tier of the Power 4, UConn is making strides that could enhance its appeal to larger conferences. Competitive performances against teams like Boston College and Duke this season have bolstered their reputation.
Benedict underscored the importance of maintaining momentum during this transitional phase, stating, “There was never any question in my mind as to what our intent was.” He acknowledged the complexities of navigating the current landscape, which includes the transfer portal and shifting revenue sharing models.
As UConn prepares for the Fenway Bowl, the team recognizes the significance of this opportunity. A second consecutive appearance signifies the program’s upward trajectory and growing respect within the college football community. “You don’t get the call from the Wasabi Fenway Bowl that they’d like to have you back if you haven’t elevated your program and brand,” Benedict noted.
With a focus on continuity and success, UConn is no longer viewed as a last resort for coaches. The path ahead is challenging, but the progress made over the past few years positions the Huskies as a program to watch in the coming seasons. As the team prepares to take the field once again, the question remains: “Why not them?”
