The UConn Huskies celebrated a historic victory as they triumphed over the North Carolina Tar Heels with a score of 27-14 in the Wasabi Fenway Bowl at Boston’s iconic Fenway Park. With this win, UConn wraps up their season with a commendable record of 9-4, marking only the third time in the program’s history that they have secured nine wins in a season, and the first occurrence since 2007.
This victory is particularly significant as it ends a three-bowl game losing streak, with the last bowl win dating back to the end of the 2009 season, when they defeated South Carolina. Furthermore, this marked UConn’s first triumph over a power four opponent since their victory against Boston College in the 2022 season.
The game began with an explosive play from running back Mel Brown, who sprinted for 47 yards on the opening play, leading the Huskies to an early 3-0 lead after a 32-yard field goal by Chris Freeman. The UConn defense displayed remarkable strength, forcing the Tar Heels into three consecutive three-and-outs, which eventually set the stage for a touchdown pass from quarterback Jackson Fagnano to Skyler Bell, extending the score to 10-0.
The Tar Heels responded swiftly with a 95-yard kickoff return touchdown by Chris Culliver, making the score 10-7. However, UConn quickly regained control, with Fagnano leading an 11-play drive that culminated in a second touchdown pass to Alex Honig, and another touchdown by Cam Edwards just before halftime, solidifying the lead at 24-7 as they dominated the first half.
The Huskies maintained their advantage in the third quarter with another field goal from Freeman, bringing the score to 27-7. The Tar Heels found a glimmer of hope late in the game with a touchdown pass from running back Caleb Hood, but the UConn defense held strong, preventing any further scoring and securing the win.
Leading the charge was Mel Brown with 96 rushing yards, followed by Cam Edwards with 74 yards and a touchdown. Fagnano earned the game’s Offensive MVP honors, completing 16 of 23 passes for 151 yards and two touchdowns, finishing the season with a total of 20 touchdown passes.
This victory serves as an inspiring conclusion to UConn’s season, highlighting the team’s resilience and potential for future success. As they look ahead, the Huskies can carry this momentum into next season, proving that they have the capacity to compete at a high level.