Cam Pippin/Ball State Athletics
Ball State heads back on the road this weekend, looking to build off its first victory of the season with a trip to Connecticut. The Cardinals (1-2) escaped New Hampshire with a 34-29 win in their home opener, giving first-year head coach Mike Uremovich his first career victory. Now comes a stiffer test against a Huskies team that, despite its 1-2 record, has been a few plays away from being undefeated.
Uremovich made it clear during his Monday press conference that he has plenty of respect for Jim Mora’s program.
“Coach Mora has done a great job with them,” Uremovich said. “They were 9-4 last year, and 1-2 this year, but could be 3-0 if it weren’t for two overtime losses. Offensively, the quarterback can make all the throws. They’ve got good, stable wide receivers and dynamic tailbacks. Defensively, they have a really aggressive attack style. They have one of the best special teams coordinators in the country. It will be a good challenge for us back on the road.”
Cleaning Things Up
While Ball State finally got into the win column, Uremovich stressed there are still plenty of areas to clean up. A safety caused by a miscommunication, a fumbled punt, and failing to close out the game offensively all stood out as correctable mistakes.
Still, Uremovich was proud of the way his team kept fighting. “I’m proud that the guys kept playing and finished the game in the fourth quarter,” he said. “But we’ve got to be better in those situations and not even give the opponent a chance.”
Defensive Depth Emerging
The Ball State defense has shown flashes early this season, already producing 10 sacks, 22 tackles for loss, and six forced fumbles through three games. Defensive lineman Nathan Voorhis said the group is thriving because of its depth.
“I think everybody in the room is able to contribute,” Voorhis said. “We’ve probably played 12 or 13 guys already, and everyone has gotten meaningful snaps. We’ve just got to make sure everybody’s prepared when they get the opportunity.”
Voorhis, who began his career at UConn, acknowledged the emotions of returning to face his old program. “I’ve had this game circled for a long time,” he said. “But once the season starts, you take it game by game. For me, it’s about preparation and doing what I have to do to win the game.”
Linebacker Alfred Chea, another former Husky, echoed that sentiment. For him, the matchup is about opportunity. “I think I know some keys that show up on film,” Chea said. “I already recognized some of the guys and what they like to do in certain situations.”
The Matchup Ahead
UConn enters Saturday’s contest on a two-game skid, dropping heartbreakers to Syracuse and Delaware by a combined six points. The Huskies, who rode last year’s nine-win campaign into heightened expectations, will be desperate to avoid a third straight loss.
For Ball State, the game is the final tune-up before MAC play begins. Uremovich emphasized that he wants to see his team respond well on the road.
“It’s another opportunity to go in a different environment and play against a really good football team,” he said. “It’ll be a good challenge for us.”
Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET Saturday at Pratt & Whitney Stadium in East Hartford.
About the Author
Dalton Tinklenberg is the Founder and Media Director of The Scouting Depot, where he leads comprehensive coverage of college and professional football. He is an active member of some of the most respected organizations in sports journalism, including the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA), Maxwell Football Club, Online News Association (ONA), National Football Foundation (NFF), and the Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE).
Before launching The Scouting Depot, Dalton worked with Blue HQ Media, where he covered major sporting events such as the Indianapolis 500, the College Football Playoff, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Through his professional affiliations and on-the-ground experience, Dalton combines deep knowledge of the game with recognized standards of storytelling, editorial excellence, and authenticity in sports coverage.
