UMass secured their first victory of the season by defeating Central Connecticut 35-31 in a hard-fought game. Quarterback Taisun Phommachanh played a crucial role by throwing three touchdown passes during the game. Brandon Campbell’s three-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter sealed the win for the FBS independent team.
Central Connecticut managed to equalize the score at 21-21 just before halftime with a 2-yard touchdown pass from Brady Olson to Paul Marsh, Jr. In the third quarter, the Blue Devils took the lead with another touchdown pass from Olson to Marsh.
UMass fought back, with Phommachanh connecting with T.Y. Harding for a 57-yard touchdown that tied the game at 28-28. Despite Central Connecticut taking a brief lead with a field goal, UMass responded strongly with Campbell scoring the game-winning touchdown after a 75-yard drive.
Phommachanh had a solid performance, completing 20 of 30 pass attempts for 287 yards, including two touchdown passes. Jakobie Keeney-James and Harding were key receivers for UMass, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive success.
On the opposing side, Olson of Central Connecticut threw for 157 yards and two touchdowns but was unable to match UMass’ offensive output. The Blue Devils were limited to 247 total yards, while UMass amassed 450 yards throughout the game.