NEC Blitz Football Game of the Week: Wagner at UMass

This week's NEC Game of the Week features the Wagner Seahawks heading to Amherst to take on FBS opponent UMass. This matchup has all the makings of an intriguing clash, and Wagner is coming into the game confident after an impressive 14-0 shutout win over Saint Francis. The Seahawks' defense has been stellar, boasting eight sacks last week, and they’ve now held their opponents scoreless for six consecutive quarters. With a 4-4 record, Wagner has already matched their highest win total by October since 2016 and will be looking to add another win, this time against FBS competition.

On the other side, UMass is 1-6 on the season and has struggled offensively, ranking near the bottom in several FBS statistical categories. While UMass does hold a historical advantage in the series (2-0 all-time), Wagner’s defense, led by standouts like Justin Reilly and Luke Jakubauskas, has shown it can dominate and create turnovers. If Wagner can continue to generate pressure on UMass quarterback Taisun Phommachanh and contain the Minutemen's ground game, they could absolutely walk out of McGuirk Alumni Stadium with an upset win.

We’ll know early on how it’ll go by watching the matchup between Wagner’s defensive front against UMass’ offensive line. With Wagner's ability to rush the passer and disrupt offenses, the Minutemen will need to protect their quarterback if they hope to find any offensive rhythm. But if Wagner's defense plays like they did last week, the Seahawks could pull off what many consider a significant upset.

Wagner’s defense is on fire, and they’ve already played FBS competition this season, holding their own against FAU in the first half earlier in the year. Now, facing a 1-6 UMass team that has struggled to maintain offensive consistency, Wagner is in prime position to capitalize. Look for quarterback Jake Cady, who had 290 passing yards and two touchdowns last week, to lead the offense in what could be the program’s biggest win in recent years.

This is a great opportunity for Wagner to make a statement, and we at NEC Blitz believe they are more than capable of defeating UMass on Saturday.

We’ll put our money where our mouth is on this one. I think Wagner wins this one. Wagner 20, UMass 17