The UMass Minutemen are making a significant move in their quest to revitalize their football program by hiring former West Virginia Mountaineers defensive assistant Tre’ Bell as their new defensive backs coach. This decision comes at a pivotal time for both UMass and West Virginia as they navigate staff changes and seek to enhance their respective programs.
Coaching Changes in the Air
Both UMass and West Virginia are currently undergoing transitions in their coaching staff. The Minutemen parted ways with head coach Don Brown during the regular season, bringing in Joe Harasymiak, a former Big Ten defensive coordinator, to lead the team moving forward. Meanwhile, West Virginia is still searching for a new head coach after parting ways with Neal Brown following the conclusion of the season. These changes signal a fresh start and an opportunity for both programs to redefine their football identities.
Tre’ Bell’s Background
Tre’ Bell brings a wealth of experience to UMass, having served as West Virginia’s pass specialist and spears coach this past season. Before his time with the Mountaineers, he held the position of cornerbacks coach at Akron. His coaching journey has also included roles as a graduate assistant at Florida State and Mississippi State, as well as a quality control coach at Eastern Kentucky. Bell’s playing career began at Vanderbilt before he transferred to UConn, where he concluded his collegiate playing days in 2017. With such a diverse background, Bell is poised to make a significant impact on UMass’s defensive strategy.
UMass’s Recent Struggles
The Minutemen are coming off a challenging 2-10 season, with both victories coming against FCS opponents. Despite these struggles, there were some bright spots to build upon. UMass showcased a solid pass defense, finishing 13th in the nation by allowing an average of just 176.6 yards per game through the air. Additionally, they forced six interceptions, demonstrating potential in their defensive backfield. However, the team faced significant challenges, as they allowed an average of 35.5 points per game, ranking 125th in the country for scoring defense. Clearly, there’s much work to be done on that side of the ball.
Financial Commitment to Football
Looking ahead, UMass is set to join the MAC in all sports, a strategic move aimed at enhancing their football program and moving away from Independence. This transition reflects the athletic department’s commitment to investing in football. When Joe Harasymiak was hired, it was reported that the school was prepared to make substantial financial investments to support the program.
Going into the 2025 season, UMass’s staff salary pool is projected to exceed $2.7 million, which would be the highest in the MAC. This financial backing provides Harasymiak with the opportunity to assemble a talented coaching staff that can compete effectively within the conference. Furthermore, the Minutemen will have nearly $2 million in NIL/revenue share for the 2025 season, increasing to $3 million for 2026. This guaranteed money means the program already has these funds secured, allowing for strategic planning rather than scrambling to raise resources.
The Road Ahead for UMass
With the introduction of Tre’ Bell to the coaching staff, UMass is laying the groundwork for a promising future. The hope is that with increased financial support and a renewed focus on football, the Minutemen can finally achieve their first winning season at the FBS level. The community is eager for change, and there’s a palpable sense of optimism surrounding the program.
As UMass embarks on this new chapter, the combination of a fresh coaching perspective and a commitment to financial investment could be the catalysts needed to turn the program around. Fans are left wondering: could this be the turning point that UMass football has been waiting for? With the right pieces in place, the Minutemen might just be on the verge of something special.
In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, UMass is taking bold steps to redefine its identity and competitiveness. The hiring of Tre’ Bell is just one piece of a larger puzzle, but it’s a crucial one. With the right leadership and support, the Minutemen could soon be a force to reckon with in the MAC and beyond. The journey is just beginning, and the excitement is building. Will UMass rise to the occasion? Only time will tell, but the signs are promising!
