How to Watch UMass vs UConn 2026: New England Rivalry, TV Channel, Stream, History, State, Odds, Prediction

The UMass Minutemen (4-3) and UConn Huskies (3-3) renew one of New England's oldest college football rivalries on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field.

First played in 1897, this historic rivalry enters its 129th year with the all-time series remarkably tied at 38-38-2.

UConn has won the last three meetings, including a thrilling 47-42 victory in 2024, while UMass looks to end its recent struggles and take the lead in the rivalry's 79th meeting.

How to Watch UMass vs. UConn: Date, Time and TV Channel

Matchup: UMass Minutemen at UConn Huskies
Date: Friday, October 23, 2026
Kickoff Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Venue: Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field
Location: East Hartford, Connecticut
TV Channel: CBS Sports Network (CBSSN)
Live Streaming: Streaming TV services carrying CBS Sports Network
Conference: UMass (MAC), UConn (Independent)
UMass Record: 4-3 (1-3 MAC)
UConn Record: 3-3
Rivalry: New England Rivalry

UMass vs. UConn History and Head-to-Head Record

The UMass–UConn football rivalry began on November 6, 1897, and has remained an important part of New England college football history. Both programs previously competed in the Yankee Conference before eventually moving to the FBS level.

The rivalry is remembered for the 1996 Miracle at McGuirk, when UMass staged a memorable comeback against UConn. Another notable meeting came in 1999, when Massachusetts defeated Connecticut 62-20 in the Huskies' final game as a Division I-AA program.

The all-time series stands at 38-38-2, making Friday's game particularly significant as the winner will move ahead in the historical rivalry.

UConn has controlled recent meetings, winning three consecutive matchups, including a 47-42 victory on November 30, 2024.

UMass vs. UConn Stats to Know

UMass Offense: 28.0 points and 339.1 total yards per game.
UConn Offense: 35.7 points and 451.8 total yards per game.
UMass Defense: Allows 19.1 points and 307.9 yards per game.
UConn Defense: Allows 25.2 points and 407.5 yards per game.
Recent Form: UMass has lost three consecutive games after a 4-0 start, while UConn enters following a bye week and a 34-20 victory over Temple.
Against the Spread: UMass is 4-3 ATS, while UConn is 4-2 ATS.
Turnovers: UMass has forced 13 turnovers this season, including seven interceptions and six fumble recoveries.

UConn has the stronger offensive production, averaging more than 450 yards per game, while UMass holds a significant defensive advantage. The Minutemen's ability to force turnovers could be an important factor against the Huskies' high-scoring offense.

UMass vs. UConn Odds, Spread and Over/Under

According to available betting lines for October 23, UConn enters Friday's rivalry game as a considerable home favorite.

Point Spread: UConn -14.5 (-110)
UMass Spread: UMass +14.5 (-111)
UConn Moneyline: -700
UMass Moneyline: +500
Over/Under Total: 49.5 points
Over 49.5: -110
Under 49.5: -110

The 14.5-point spread reflects UConn's offensive strength and recent dominance in the rivalry. However, UMass has been effective defensively this season, which could make covering the spread more challenging for the Huskies.

Odds are based on an available Action Network listing and may vary between sportsbooks.

UMass vs. UConn Key Players to Watch

Kalieb Osborne — UConn Quarterback

Osborne leads the Huskies' passing attack with 1,421 yards and 10 touchdowns. His ability to create scoring opportunities will be crucial against UMass' strong defense.

William "Pop" Watson III — UMass Quarterback

Watson has recorded 820 passing yards and seven touchdowns this season. However, his availability remains uncertain because of an ankle injury that has kept him out of the previous two games.

Cyncir Bowers — UConn Running Back

Bowers has rushed for 433 yards and six touchdowns, making him one of UConn's most important offensive contributors.

Jahmad Harmon — UMass Defensive Back

Harmon has recorded three interceptions this season and leads the MAC in that category. His ball-hawking ability could help UMass disrupt UConn's passing offense.

UMass vs. UConn Prediction and Pick

UConn enters Friday's matchup with a significant offensive advantage and the benefit of playing at home. The Huskies have averaged 35.7 points per game and won their last three meetings against UMass.

However, the Minutemen have allowed just 19.1 points per contest and possess one of the MAC's stronger defenses. Their ability to generate turnovers could keep the game competitive.

Although UConn appears better positioned to win, the 14.5-point spread may be difficult to cover against a disciplined UMass defense.

Prediction: UConn 31, UMass 20

Betting Pick: UMass +14.5 (-111)

Over/Under Lean: Over 49.5 points

Final Thoughts

The UMass–UConn rivalry returns for its 79th meeting with the historical series deadlocked at 38-38-2. UConn will look to extend its recent dominance, while Massachusetts has an opportunity to claim the overall series lead for the first time in years.

With more than a century of history and contrasting offensive and defensive strengths, Friday night's New England rivalry promises an intriguing contest between two familiar regional opponents.

Fans can watch UMass vs. UConn live on CBS Sports Network on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. ET.

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