UConn Football Returns to Fenway Bowl with a New Identity-and Bigger Expectations
BOSTON - A year ago, UConn’s postgame celebration at the Fenway Bowl was all about belief. Senior defensive back Durante Jones summed it up with a simple, powerful refrain: *“Why not us?”
- It was a moment of defiance and pride after the Huskies knocked off North Carolina. A statement that UConn belonged.
Fast forward to today, and it’s not just about belonging anymore. The Huskies are back in the Fenway Bowl, but the vibe has shifted.
This isn’t a Cinderella story anymore-it’s a program that’s evolving, growing, and dealing with the real-world challenges that come with success. Coaching turnover, player opt-outs, and transfer portal turbulence are now part of the equation.
These are the kinds of problems you want to have-because they mean people are paying attention.
And make no mistake, UConn football is being taken seriously.
From Underdog to Contender
The Huskies’ return to Fenway Park feels fitting. It’s a natural homecoming of sorts, even if the team was greeted by a brisk 12-degree breeze during their pre-bowl festivities. But the cold didn’t dampen the mood.
“We couldn’t be happier,” said Athletic Director David Benedict. “Four years ago, we were just hoping to get to a bowl game. Now we’re worried about the weather?”
That quote says it all. UConn has gone from hoping to be invited to the party to figuring out which one they’ll attend. The program isn’t just showing up anymore-it’s building something sustainable.
Coaching Carousel, But the Train Keeps Moving
The past month has been a whirlwind. Jim Mora, who helped engineer UConn’s turnaround, is off to Colorado State-a job he had his eye on since 2019.
Offensive coordinator Gordon Sammis followed him out the door, landing at TCU. But the Huskies didn’t sit still.
They brought in Jason Candle, a proven recruiter and program builder from Toledo, to keep the momentum going.
Candle’s not wasting any time. He’s already flipped players from his old recruiting class, including quarterback Bo Polston, and started assembling a staff that could reshape UConn’s offensive identity.
One name to watch: Nunzio Campanile, who’s expected to come in as offensive coordinator from Syracuse. Campanile has deep New Jersey roots, a family tree full of football coaches, and a track record of developing quarterbacks-most recently with transfers like Kyle McCord and Kenny Angeli.
That could be a game-changer for UConn. The Huskies haven’t always had access to the Northeast’s top QB talent or made big splashes in the transfer market. Campanile could open new doors on both fronts.
Youth Movement Incoming
Next season, UConn will likely look younger. That’s the tradeoff when players leave for the NFL, the portal, or greener pastures.
But Candle’s high school recruiting chops could help balance the scales. UConn may not rely as heavily on the portal as some other programs do, which could create a more stable foundation long-term.
And that’s the goal now-building something that lasts.
A Stepping Stone, Not a Dead End
Just a few years ago, UConn was considered a coaching graveyard. An independent program with no conference home and little national relevance.
But that perception is changing. Mora’s move to Colorado State and Sammis’ leap to TCU show that UConn can now be a launching pad for ambitious coaches.
That’s how programs like Boise State built sustained success-by becoming a proving ground for rising stars.
If UConn can keep that pipeline flowing while maintaining continuity on the field, there’s no reason they can’t keep climbing.
The Realignment Wild Card
Of course, the biggest question hovering over UConn’s future is conference realignment. Right now, they’re in a sort of limbo-better than most Group of Six programs, but not yet part of the Power 4. But they’re knocking on the door.
Last year’s Fenway Bowl win over North Carolina was a statement. Wins over Boston College and Duke this season only strengthened the case.
An invitation to the ACC or another Power 4 league isn’t guaranteed, but it’s no longer a pipe dream. The Huskies are in the conversation.
And that’s why showing up for this year’s Fenway Bowl matters.
“There was never any question in my mind as to what our intent was,” Benedict said. “These transitions are always tough, but when you add the portal, revenue sharing, all the moving parts-it’s easy to get distracted. But we knew we wanted to play.”
Saturday Is a Test-and a Launchpad
Saturday’s matchup against Army won’t be easy. UConn is dealing with opt-outs, including starting quarterback Joe Fagnano.
The depth chart is thinner, and the team is in transition. But that doesn’t take away from what this game represents: another step forward.
This isn’t just a bowl appearance-it’s a sign that UConn’s brand is growing. The Huskies are replacing an ACC team in this game, a clear signal that they’re being seen in a new light.
“You don’t get the call from the Wasabi Fenway Bowl asking you back unless you’ve elevated your program,” Benedict said. “I’m proud of the progress we’ve made.
When we hired Coach Mora, I don’t think anyone would’ve been unhappy with what he accomplished. Now, Saturday is another chance to put an exclamation point on that progress.”
The Verdict
UConn football is no longer just chasing bowl eligibility. They’re chasing relevance, respect, and a seat at the Power 4 table.
The road ahead won’t be easy-recruiting battles, coaching turnover, and realignment politics will all play a role. But the Huskies are no longer asking *“Why not us?”
- with a hopeful shrug.
Now, it’s more of a challenge to everyone else: Why not UConn?