Quote:Instead of an important, momentum-gathering victory, the Minutemen began their season just like the past five years, with a loss. This loss in particular was difficult to take.

In a year where a lot of talk has been made about changing culture, and making progress towards turning a corner, Saturday’s victory felt exactly like so many games where UMass has found a way to lose as opposed to win. A lead squandered, key mistakes at inopportune times, big plays given up leading to deciding scores. Those are things UMass was, and still is, hoping to put behind them. They weren’t able to do so on Saturday, and it cost them a win.

UMass’ offense showed that it can still score, racking up five touchdowns via both air and ground, in spite of an up and down performance from their offensive line. UMass’ defense, as it has been since the move up, is the primary source of concern.

Good performances were turned in on several levels. Rodgers looks like the stalwart he was projected to be at cornerback. Linebacking newcomer Bryton Barr had a terrific UMass debut with 13 tackles and a sack in the middle. Steve Casali looked strong as always, never hesitating to lay it on the line for the Minutemen.

But at the end of the day, UMass’ defense gave up 503 yards on Saturday, and lost coverage at the most inopportune time. Blown assignments can be corrected, but defensive coordinator Ed Pinkham has more work to do.

UMass needs to regroup quickly, as a road date with Coastal Carolina awaits next Saturday night. A game, that while the Chanticleer’s first at the FBS level, is far from a sure thing.

The Minutemen still have a chance to get their season off to a quick start, and how they regroup after losing a tight one, one that they had in their grasp, will show a lot about the 2017 UMass squad.