As the UConn football team prepares to launch the Jason Candle era, the anticipation builds for their season opener against Lafayette College. Just hours before the game, Candle announced that Kalieb Osborne, a dual-threat quarterback and transfer from Toledo, would be leading the Huskies as their starting quarterback.
The decision comes after a competitive three-man battle during fall camp, which also included Jake Merklinger, a pro-style transfer from Tennessee, and Tucker McDonald, who has been with the Huskies since his freshman year in 2023. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 218 pounds, Osborne brings a wealth of experience to the team. He played in seven games last season at Toledo, where he completed 32 of 52 passes for 427 yards and three touchdowns. Additionally, he showcased his running ability with 282 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 51 carries.
Osborne will take the field against Lafayette, a team that has already faced its share of challenges this season. The Leopards attempted to kick off their campaign against Georgetown but were thwarted by lightning, resulting in a suspended game. Lafayette had initially taken the lead with a 28-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Lipovski to Zane Wooldridge, but the game was ultimately declared a no-contest after a 95-yard kickoff return touchdown put Georgetown ahead.
Jason Candle, who previously served as the offensive coordinator at Toledo, is no stranger to weather-related disruptions. He recalls a similar experience during his first season at Toledo in 2015, when their opener against Stony Brook faced multiple delays before being called off. "I’ve lived that situation before, so I know they’re gonna be ready to roll and we’ve got to be at our best," Candle remarked, acknowledging the challenges Lafayette faces as they enter their fifth season under coach John Troxell, following an impressive 8-4 campaign in 2025.
For Candle, this game marks a significant milestone as he dons a logo other than Toledo's for the first time since 2008. He inherits a program that has seen substantial growth under former coach Jim Mora, who led UConn to consecutive nine-win seasons for the first time in history. With a roster that has undergone a significant transformation, including over 80 newcomers, Candle's primary objective is to maintain the momentum built by his predecessor.
“There’s gonna be pressures off every game, right? Your first pressure is game one,” Candle stated. He emphasized the importance of preparation and respect for each opponent on their schedule, acknowledging that every team poses a unique challenge. Senior running back Kenji Christian echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to respect Lafayette as a formidable opponent despite their previous struggles.
UConn enters the matchup as a 19.5-point favorite, a testament to their progress from past seasons when games against FCS opponents were uncertain. Christian commented on the importance of executing their game plan effectively, recognizing that Lafayette possesses talented players as well.
As the game approaches, Candle expressed his eagerness to see his team in action. “I’m just excited to watch them play,” he said, reflecting on the long journey that has led to this moment. The Huskies will look to showcase their hard work and preparation as they embark on a new chapter in their football history.
The game is set to take place at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, with kickoff scheduled for noon. Fans can catch the action on WFSB 3, UConn+, and WWAX, with coverage from the UConn Sports Network and Fox Sports 97.9.
In their last meeting in 1984, Lafayette edged out UConn with a 20-13 victory, and the Leopards currently lead the series 1-0. With both teams eager to make a statement, Saturday’s matchup promises to be an exciting start to the college football season.
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