UMass Football News--November 10th, 2017

OK, after many adventures, the blog is back up.

A quick look at the Black Bears:

Maine is 4-4 in 2017. They're #5 in scoring offense and #6 in scoring defense in the CAA. Maine is in the middle of the pack in most league statistics.

The Black Bears beat UMass in 2011 and went 9-4 overall. Maine had another good year in 2013 going 10-3. They've gone 9-13 over the last two years. Maine lost to BC 24-3 in '15 and 45-3 to Toledo in 2016

Maine has always been a big, physical FCS team. They tend to surprise FBS teams who have never played them before. UMass has plenty of experience with them and should know what to expect. Unlike 2011, UMass should have more talent and speed. The Minutemen need to get on top early and not let Maine get going. It'll be a bowl game for the Black Bears, so they'll be motivated.

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MassLive reports Fenway Park wants to be an "alternative" home site for the Minutemen.

MassLive also reports UMass and Maine are set to battle.

Matty Vautour says Minutemen players are excited to play in Fenway.

He also has a featured on Liam Coan who is the Black Bears offensive coordinator. Maine run game coordinator Brian Picucci spent eleven years coaching at UMass.

The UMass Daily Collegian says UMass is trying for its third win in the last four games.

Mike Traini of "Fight Massachusetts" previews the Maine game.

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BYU is a 4.5 underdog to UNLV.

The surging Rebels are relishing a chance to knock off the Cougars.

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