Amherst, MA—–The Massachusetts football team closed out its spring schedule on Saturday, with its annual spring game at Amherst, giving fans their first extended look at a roster blending returning contributors and new faces.
The controlled scrimmage featured four 15-minute quarters with a running clock and 12 total drives split between offense and defense. All four quarterbacks moved their units effectively at different points, with each guiding at least one scoring drive.
Former UMass standout and current Minnesota Vikings defensive back Isaiah Rodgers served as honorary captain and spent time with the team before kickoff. The day also began on a somber note with a moment of silence honoring Emma MacDonald, a respected member of the UMass Dining staff and a well-known figure within the university community.
Watson III sets the tone at quarterback
Quarterback William “Pop” Watson III stood out early, showing command of the offense and comfort in the pocket. He consistently worked through progressions and delivered accurate throws, completing all four of his attempts on his first drive.
That opening possession ended with Watson taking matters into his own hands. Facing pressure near the goal line, he escaped the pocket, rolled left, and ran in a touchdown, capping an efficient start.
“We were efficient, we did well,” Watson said. “That’s the main focus—come out, do our job, execute, and have fun. From a player’s perspective, that’s all you can ask for.”
Watson also displayed strong chemistry with former Springfield Central teammate Joseph Griffin Jr. The connection was immediate, highlighted by a 15-yard strike on their first play together and multiple successful completions on quick-breaking routes throughout the day.
After the game, head coach Joe Harasymiak handed Watson the microphone in front of the crowd. With family and friends in attendance, the Springfield native delivered an energized message, emphasizing that this year’s team is aiming to move past last season’s struggles and compete in the Mid-American Conference.
Tight ends emerge as a focal point
One of the clearest themes from the spring game was the heavy involvement of the tight end group. Of 43 pass attempts, 13 targeted tight ends, signaling a potentially expanded role for the position in the offense.
Max Dowling was frequently featured, especially early, recording multiple catches on the opening drive. Later, RJ Johnson III found him on a 15-yard gain after catch that showcased his ability to create yards beyond the reception point.
Harasymiak praised the group’s consistency and experience.
“That’s our best group, by far—most mature, most experienced,” he said. “They look like what you’re supposed to look like. We’re going to have to use them. That’s going to be a strength early.”
Other tight ends, including Reece Adkins, Jax Markovich, Owen Anderson, and Matt Ogunniyi, also contributed. Ogunniyi made one of the day’s most notable plays, hauling in a deep third-down conversion on a post route to keep a drive alive.
Defensive backs show playmaking ability, but discipline remains an issue
The secondary delivered a mixed performance, combining impact plays with costly penalties. Defensive pass interference was called three times on deep-ball situations, often on overthrown passes where defenders still made contact. While aggressive coverage is encouraged, the penalties highlighted an area needing refinement.
On the positive side, Raheim Sexil delivered one of the standout performances of the day. The redshirt sophomore recorded two interceptions, both coming on well-timed breaks on outside comeback routes. His second interception was returned for a touchdown, capping off an impressive showing.
Harasymiak noted Sexil’s growth and confidence throughout spring ball.
“He wasn’t quite ready when we got him last year, but he’s confident now,” Harasymiak said. “That might be his third or fourth interception of the spring. He’s a guy who has to play for us.”
Looking ahead
Following the spring game, UMass will pause before resuming summer workouts and later reconvening for fall camp in August. The Minutemen open their 2026 season on Sept. 3 at Rutgers in New Jersey.
The spring game offered a snapshot of a team still developing but beginning to show structure on both sides of the ball—highlighted by an efficient quarterback performance, an emerging tight end unit, and a secondary with clear playmaking potential.
