Amherst, MA (WGGB) — The UMass Minutemen have opened their 2012 season 0-3. Three losses against Big Six conference opponents by lopsided margins has some cringing.  But the reality of this kind of move is that, early on, it’s not easy.

This weekend, however, the MAC slate begins, and UMass will begin playing against teams that are more reasonably approximate to their own talent levels.  There will still be a talent gap, for sure. Many of these MAC teams are still very good football teams, capable of beating an FCS opponent by lopsided margins.  And, realistically, UMass still has FCS talent, for the most part.

But the chances for a victory do increase, going forward, for the Minutemen.  This weekend, they open their MAC slate with a date at Miami (OH), at Noon on Saturday.  The game can be seen here on abc40.

For the complete UMass Athletics preview, click here.