The struggles continue for the Minutemen defense. After being blown out in the first half by Northern Illinois, 35-0, UMass has yet to prove it can stop a relentless Husky offense. Jordan Lynch, to be specific.
As Northern Illinois' starting quarterback, the junior from Chicago has amassed 348 total yards and is responsible for three touchdowns. Of those yards, 157 have come on the ground, highlighted by a 57-yard touchdown scamper. Two rushing touchdowns by Keith Harris Jr. and backup quarterback Matt McIntosh round out the eight touchdowns for the Huskies.
On the other side of the ball, UMass has been unable to sustain any drive, converting four third downs on twelve attempts and zero fourth downs in four seemingly misguided attempts. Three fumbles have also stalled drives and ultimately prevented the Minutemen from getting on the board.
UMass will remain winless this season and move to 0-9, while the Huskies will stay atop the West division in the MAC and move to 9-1 overall.