Despite being the most popular college sport nationally, the football program at UMass Amherst has struggled to find its footing in an increasingly competitive field. Between 2012 and 2016, the team didn’t pick up more than three wins in a single 12-game season. During the 2017 and 2018 seasons, the team did slightly better, earning 4-8 records both seasons.
Since the end of the 2018 season, two top quarterbacks have graduated — Ross Comis and Andrew Ford, along with top offensive talents like wide receiver Andy Isabella and running back Marquis Young. Their absence leaves gaping holes in the offense but also provides an opportunity for new talent to emerge — or for old talent to reemerge.