The beginning of the William “Pop” Watson III era for Massachusetts ( umassfootball) included another victory, defeating Sacred Heart ( sacredheartufb) 37-10 in Amherst, Mass., Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026. This would be the Minutemen’s first 2-0 start since 2011 and their first home win since 2024. Photo: Massachusetts quarterback William “Pop” Watson III ( pop.3x) runs into the end zone for a touchdown. For the dailyhampshiregazette #massachusetts #journalism #photography #sports #umass Massachusetts players enter the field before the game. Massachusetts cornerback TJ Magee, left tjmagee5, attempts to tackle Sacred Heart wide receiver Dean Hangey (10, deanhangey). Massachusetts offensive lineman Peyton Miller ( _pmill_) sits on the sideline. Massachusetts safety Zeraun Daniel (38, zeraun_) and safety Kendall Bournes (3, _kgoon) celebrate after breaking up a pass play. Massachusetts linebacker Khari Bendolph, back k.bendolph3, lays a hit on Sacred Heart quarterback Poochie Snyder ...