UMass wins 27-23 over William & Mary

Best win since 2007!

Yes Armando's last second kick to beat Holy Cross 2008 and the defense's interception to preserve a win over UNH in 2009 were good. But this one was better.

Section 16's O-Line and running backs were all anyone could ask. UMass had 215 yards rushing (4.1 yards/rush) on a Tribe defense that gave up an average of 61.1 yards/game in 2009.

Our no-name defensive line more than held their own against William & Mary's offense. I was also impressed with the UMass DB's who had good position on William & Mary's receivers all night and eight pass breakups.

We held Jonathan Grimes, a Walter Payton Award candidate, to 67 yards rushing. The defense looked fast and aggressive all game.

Kyle Havens went 15-24 62.5% for 223 yards an 0 INT's.

Brandon Flanagan played well on the D-line.

Anthony Nelson led the team with 78 yards receiving.

John Griffin got the best win of his career.

Jonathan Hernandez was the best player on the field in the fourth quarter.

We had some errors, but for so many new players, I thought we played very well and were flat out the better team.

Stats here.

UMass writeup here.

William & Mary writeup here.

More tomorrow.