Two weeks ago, it seemed like everyone was wondering how much longer it would take Syracuse to pick up another conference win. Following yet another ACC loss at the hands of Virginia, coupled with more injuries at the quarterback position, it was difficult to see when, or even how, the Orange would finally get back on track.
But seemingly out of nowhere everything changed. Syracuse went on the road and stunned North Carolina in overtime before returning home and knocking off a ranked SMU squad in front of its own fans. Just like that, the Orange have put together back-to-back conference victories, and suddenly, there is a lot more optimism surrounding this team.
Here are the biggest takeaways from Syracuse's win over the SMU yesterday:
Fran Brown has established the run game
With Steve Angeli back under center and looking healthy, opposing defenses have to be much more conscious of what Syracuse can accomplish through the air. That added threat in the passing game has also opened up opportunities for the Orange to establish a more consistent ground attack.
Between Ahmad Miller and Tylik Hill, Syracuse combined for 28 carries and 110 rushing yards, providing a solid foundation for the offense as a whole. A very respectable day on the ground, which is something the Orange have really struggled with in the past.
It's also worth noting that Syracuse has found success with a two-headed monster in the backfield rather than relying on one running back to shoulder the bulk of the workload. With both Miller and Hill receiving a healthy share of the carries, the Orange can spread out the responsibilities while keeping both backs involved.
It also gives Fran Brown more flexibility when making personnel decisions and allows him to get creative with how he utilizes each running back in the offense.
Calvin Russell makes an impact
The five-star freshman has arrived, and early signs suggest he could be the real deal. At first glance, his stat line may not jump off the page, with just three receptions for 41 yards. However, the box score doesn't tell the whole story when it comes to the impact he made against SMU.
Between the touchdown reception in the back of the end zone that was ultimately overturned and a lengthy screen pass that was negated by a holding penalty, there were several flashes of what makes him such an exciting young talent.
The production may not have shown up in the final numbers, but the playmaking ability was certainly on display. Moving forward, No. 5 is someone defenses are going to need to keep a close eye on whenever he steps onto the field, and will continue to open up opportunities for Umari Hatcher who continues to ball out week after week.
Can't get too high during the highs
Syracuse fans certainly deserved to celebrate after the win over the Mustangs, and there is no question that rushing the field was an understandable reaction. After all, Orange fans had not seen Syracuse defeat a Power Four opponent at the JMA Wireless Dome since its upset victory over Miami in November 2024. It was a moment worth celebrating.
However, with two consecutive wins now under its belt, Syracuse cannot afford to overlook what is coming next. The Clemson Tigers are heading to the Dome next weekend fresh off a statement victory over Florida State in Tallahassee, and they will present an entirely different challenge for the Orange.
Dabo Swinney will undoubtedly have his team ready for battle as Clemson makes the trip north. The Tigers will also have some extra motivation after Syracuse went into Death Valley and handed them a loss on their home field last season.
The Orange should absolutely enjoy this win, but the focus now has to shift toward what lies ahead. With bowl eligibility back within reach, the final four games of the season carry significant weight.
How Syracuse finishes this season could have implications not only for the program's immediate future, but also for the momentum and expectations heading into next year.
But overall a huge win for Syracuse, and a lot of good to takeaway from the game. What were your biggest takeaways from the win?
