Lopsided loss at Georgia aside, NC State football alum Shane Montgomery had a promising first week as an interim head coach.
The UMass Minutemen (2-9) faced a tough loss against the No. 8-ranked Georgia Bulldogs (9-2), falling 59-21 on the road. This game was under the leadership of interim head coach Shane Montgomery, a former NC State quarterback, who took over after the departure of Don Brown earlier in the week.
However, there’s no dishonor in this defeat, as it came against a formidable opponent. The loss marked Georgia’s 30th consecutive victory at home, the longest active home winning streak in FBS football.
Montgomery, who joined UMass as the offensive coordinator this year, had his team well-prepared for the challenge against this SEC powerhouse and College Football Playoff contender. The Minutemen showcased a solid offensive performance, highlighted by Jalen John’s 107 rushing yards, contributing to a total of 226 yards on the ground.
Notably, UMass struck first in the game, executing a 10-play, 75-yard touchdown drive right out of the gate thanks to Montgomery’s play-calling. They also managed to score again in the second quarter with a 14-play, 75-yard drive, and in the third quarter, the offense continued its momentum with a 75-yard touchdown pass.
Shane Montgomery, who launched his coaching career as a graduate assistant at NC State after being named to the All-ACC Second Team in 1989 and earning two bowl MVP awards, aims to secure his first victory as interim head coach. He previously held a head coaching record of 17-31 at Miami (Ohio) from 2005 to 2008. Montgomery’s Minutemen will finish their 2024 season at home against fellow FBS Independent UConn (7-4).
The game is scheduled to kick off at noon ET next Saturday and will be broadcast on ESPN+.
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