Boston, MA (BCSNN) — The 2024 Wasabi Fenway Bowl at the home of the Boston Red Sox delivered a memorable clash between the UConn Huskies and the North Carolina Tar Heels, with Connecticut emerging victorious, 27-14 on Saturday, December 28th.

The game started with UConn taking an early lead, scoring on their opening drive with a 32-yard field goal by Chris Freeman. UConn's defense forced three-and-outs on North Carolina's first two possessions, setting the tone for the game. UConn extended their lead to 17-7 in the second quarter with a 38-yard touchdown pass from Fagnano to Skyler Bell.

North Carolina responded with a 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Chris Culliver, cutting the lead to 17-14. However, the Huskies defense held strong, limiting UNC to just 45 yards of total offense in the first half.

In the second half, UConn continued to dominate, adding a 32-yard field goal by Freeman and a two-yard touchdown run by Cam Edwards to extend their lead to 27-14. The Heels struggled to generate momentum, finishing the game with 206 total yards of offense.

For the UConn Huskies, quarterback Joe Fagnano was the standout performer, throwing for two touchdown passes and completing 18 of 28 passes for 213 yards. Running back Mel Brown also made a significant impact, rushing for 120 yards on 20 carries and scoring a touchdown. Wide receiver Skyler Bell was Fagnano's primary target, catching five passes for 112 yards and a touchdown.

On the offensive side for North Carolina, running back Caleb Hood stepped in as quarterback and led the Tar Heels' offense for a time. Hood completed 6 of 12 passes for 60 yards and rushed for 45 yards on 15 carries. Wide receiver Chris Culliver also made a notable contribution with a 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.

Defensively, Connecticut linebacker Tui Faumuina-Brown was a force to be reckoned with, recording eight tackles, one sack, and an interception. His interception came at a crucial moment in the second quarter, thwarting a potential scoring drive by North Carolina.

For North Carolina, defensive back Alijah Huzzie stood out with seven tackles and a forced fumble. Despite the loss, Huzzie's performance was a bright spot for the Tar Heels' defense.

“They’re going through some turmoil, they’ve had a lot of change. They never gave up. I thought Freddie did a great job of keeping that group together.”

UConn Head Coach Jim L. Mora

The victory marks UConn's first bowl win since 2009 and their ninth win of the 2024 season, while North Carolina finishes the season with a losing record at 6-7.