Locked On UConn - Daily Podcast on University of Connecticut Huskies Football and Basketball

Beyond Bowl Eligibility: UConn Football’s New Standard

Episode Summary

On today’s episode of Locked On UConn, Mark Zanetto, joined by his weekly Friday co-hosts Bobby Wilson and Pete Calin, dive into a loaded lineup as the Huskies prepare for tonight’s matchup against Georgia State. Coming off a hard-fought 17-10 victory over Rice, the team is hungry for more, and it’s not just about wins—it’s about setting a new standard for UConn football.

Episode Notes

On today’s episode of Locked On UConn, Mark Zanetto, joined by his weekly Friday co-hosts Bobby Wilson and Pete Calin, dive into a loaded lineup as the Huskies prepare for tonight’s matchup against Georgia State. Coming off a hard-fought 17-10 victory over Rice, the team is hungry for more, and it’s not just about wins—it’s about setting a new standard for UConn football.

 

Segment 1: Rice Game Recap - Resilience and Defensive Standouts

 

Mark, Bobby, and Pete break down the gritty win over Rice, highlighting the defense’s clutch performance and Durell Robinson’s game-changing 68-yard touchdown run. They discuss the Huskies’ ability to turn up the intensity in the second half and the leadership shown by linebacker Tui Faumuina-Brown.

 

• Discussion Points:

• The importance of Robinson’s explosive play in shifting momentum.

• Key defensive plays that kept Rice at just 10 points.

• Faumuina-Brown’s comments about the defense wanting to be among the nation’s best and how this mindset is reshaping the team.

 

Segment 2: Georgia State Preview - Key Matchups and Strategy

 

The co-hosts look ahead to the Georgia State matchup, focusing on their new-look team after last season’s 35-14 win over UConn. With Pitt transfer Christian Veilleux at quarterback, Georgia State poses a unique challenge, but his susceptibility to interceptions opens opportunities for UConn’s defense.

 

• Key Matchups:

• How UConn’s front seven can apply pressure to disrupt Veilleux’s rhythm.

• Georgia State’s aggressive, turnover-focused defense and how UConn can exploit it.

• Potential big-play moments for UConn if they stay patient and disciplined on offense.

• Questions for the Co-Hosts:

• “How can UConn’s defensive schemes capitalize on Veilleux’s vulnerability under pressure?”

• “What offensive adjustments should we look for to counter Georgia State’s aggressive style?”

 

Segment 3: Beyond Bowl Eligibility - Aiming Higher

 

Mark, Bobby, and Pete wrap up the show with a discussion on UConn’s changing ambitions. Faumuina-Brown’s recent comments reveal that this team isn’t just playing for bowl eligibility—they want to be top-tier. This shift speaks volumes about the program’s growth under Coach Mora.

 

• Topics Covered:

• The significance of Faumuina-Brown’s “get-back game” mentality after last year’s Georgia State loss.

• How UConn’s commitment to a higher standard is impacting team culture.

• Predictions on whether this renewed focus will be evident on the field tonight.

• Final Thoughts:

• The co-hosts discuss the bigger picture for UConn football and why merely being bowl-eligible is no longer enough. This team is focused on setting a higher bar and redefining what it means to be a Huskies football fan.