Can UConn football build on its success from 2022?

LOGAN, UT- AUGUST 27: Head coach Jim Mora of the Connecticut Huskies watches a replay during the first half of their game against the Utah State Aggies onAugust 27, 2022 at Maverik Stadium in Logan, Utah. (Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images)
LOGAN, UT- AUGUST 27: Head coach Jim Mora of the Connecticut Huskies watches a replay during the first half of their game against the Utah State Aggies onAugust 27, 2022 at Maverik Stadium in Logan, Utah. (Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images) /
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December 19, 2022; Conway, South Carolina, USA; Connecticut Huskies head coach Jim Mora on the field in the second half against the Marshall Thundering Herd at Brooks Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Yeazell-USA TODAY Sports
December 19, 2022; Conway, South Carolina, USA; Connecticut Huskies head coach Jim Mora on the field in the second half against the Marshall Thundering Herd at Brooks Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Yeazell-USA TODAY Sports /

How will UConn fare in 2023?

Two things need to happen for the Huskies to return to the postseason. Quarterback play needs to be consistent and reliable to complement what should be a solid running game. Conversely, the run defense needs to improve as well.

Sept. 2 — vs. NC State (L): The Wolfpack won big last season. UConn might be able to keep it close since this is game one with a new quarterback and offensive coordinator.

Sept. 9 — at Georgia State (W): The Panthers can light up the scoreboard, but they will have issues slowing the Huskies’ running game.

Sept. 16 — vs. FIU (W): Much like Georgia State, FIU will have trouble slowing UConn’s rushing attack.

Sept. 23 — vs. Duke (L): The Blue Devils will be a player in the ACC. UConn is overmatched in this one. Duke wins, going away.

Sept. 30 — Utah State (W): The Aggies won this game at home last season. Utah State won’t have Calvin Tyler this year. UConn gets its win back.

Oct. 7 — at Rice (W): This game could be tricky. The Owls have shown improvement, but they won’t be able to stop UConn on the ground.

Oct. 21 — vs. USF (W): The Bulls are rebuilding, and this is arguably the most winnable game on its schedule.

Oct. 28 — at Boston College (W): The Eagles will have their struggles this season. It’s a 50/50 game, but the Huskies should be able to win this game again because Boston College’s roster is not very good.

Nov. 4 — at Tennessee (L): The Volunteers want to make noise in the SEC this season. With Tennessee’s ability to throw deep down the field, ball possession won’t matter much. The Vols win big in this game.

Nov. 11 — at James Madison (L): The Dukes couldn’t play for the Sunbelt or in a bowl game last season. JMU will be good despite not having Todd Centeio this fall.

Nov. 18 — vs. Sacred Heart (W): An FCS opponent is just what the doctor ordered to stop a two-game losing streak.

Nov. 25 — vs. UMass (W): Rumor says this game will be played at a neutral site. I hope they have a trophy. UConn should romp in this game.

Prediction: 8-4

Jim Mora has this team going in the right direction. If the run game can keep defenses honest and make a play here and there, the Huskies can find themselves back in the postseason.

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