UConn loses starting quarterback, but dominates Syracuse in Big East opener

EAST HARTFORD, Conn. – Backup quarterback D.J. Hernandez rushed for 86 yards and a touchdown after replacing injured starter Matt Bonislawski and Connecticut beat Syracuse 26-7 in a driving rain Friday night.

Terry Caulley had touchdown runs of 4 and 8 yards for the Huskies (4-1, 1-0) in their Big East opener. The UConn defense dominated the Orange (1-4, 0-2), forcing three turnovers. Syracuse scored in the closing minutes.

Bonislawski, a junior, broke his left collarbone in the first half during the Huskies’ first scoring drive.

With a big lead, UConn ran the ball much of the second half.