PISCATAWAY, NEW JERSEY - In a remarkable display of skill and determination, former Virginia Tech quarterback William "Pop" Watson III made a significant impact in his debut for the University of Massachusetts (UMass) by leading the Minutemen to a stunning upset over the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. The game took place on September 3, 2026, at SHI Stadium, where UMass ended a 16-game losing streak with a resounding 21-7 victory.
Watson, who previously earned accolades as the Massachusetts high school player of the year, spent three seasons at Virginia Tech after being a three-star recruit in the 2023 class. During his time with the Hokies, he redshirted in his first year and served as a backup to Kyron Drones for the following two seasons. However, after the departure of head coach Brent Pry, who was instrumental in recruiting him, Watson decided to transfer closer to home.
Upon transferring to UMass, Watson faced the challenge of revitalizing a struggling program. The Minutemen had not won a game in over a year, but Watson's leadership and performance on the field proved to be the catalyst for change. In the season opener against Rutgers, he completed an impressive 19 of 22 passes for 197 yards and three touchdowns. Additionally, he showcased his versatility by rushing for 40 yards on six carries.
One of the standout moments of the game included a spectacular touchdown pass that highlighted Watson's arm strength and accuracy, further solidifying his reputation as a playmaker. The Minutemen's offense thrived under his guidance, and the team quickly established a commanding lead.
Watson's journey has garnered attention from Virginia Tech fans, many of whom expressed their support for him on social media following the game. The Hokies, now under the leadership of head coach James Franklin, appear to be in a stronger position, while Watson has found a new opportunity to shine at UMass. In his final game with Virginia Tech, Watson had already made his mark by leading the Hokies to a 37-17 victory over Virginia, where he completed 14 of 21 passes for 254 yards and a touchdown, alongside a rushing touchdown.
Despite his limited opportunities at Virginia Tech, where he played in 11 games and made two starts, Watson's potential was evident. Fans had hoped to see him take the reins earlier, especially during a challenging season for the Hokies. His success at UMass not only highlights his talent but also serves as a reminder of the importance of finding the right fit for a player's development.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Watson and the Minutemen as they look to build on this momentum and continue their resurgence in college football. Congratulations to Pop Watson on a fantastic start to his new chapter.
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