Wow! What an effort from Syracuse. If you thought this team would let up and have a letdown one week after a massive win over Louisville, then you thought wrong. SU came out and punched Uconn in the mouth and didn’t stop punching until there were no teeth left in its jaw. The Orange throttled the Huskies behind a dominant performance from both the offensive and defensive units. Here are the big numbers that stick out:
48
This is just the sixth time since 2019 that Syracuse has hit the 40 point mark. SU only touched this number twice last season and one of those times was against something called UAlbany. This offense is prolific and exciting to watch and it’s thanks in large part to new offensive coordinator Robert Anae and the development of Garrett Shrader which is credited to quarterback’s coach Jason Beck.
309
This is the amount of passing yards Syracuse had tonight. Yeah, that’s right. Passing yards. Shrader was airing it out all night and looked like an Elite 11 signal caller and the former four-star recruit that he was once was. If the Mississippi State transfer can be this accurate on a week-to-week basis and make all the throws on the field, this offense can do anything. As a result, this team can do anything.
97
This is how many rushing yards Uconn had tonight. Let’s remind ourselves this is a Syracuse defense we all expected to struggle in the trenches due to the defensive line issues. Well that unit we were all so concerned about just shut down the 15th best rushing attack in the country.
10
Ten different Syracuse players caught passes today. Sean Tucker led the way with four receptions but SU is really making it a point to spread the ball around to everyone, even the tight ends! If the Orange can develop many different trusted targets other than Courtney Jackson, this offense could be a very tough assignment.
7
Garrett Williams led the Syracuse defense with seven tackles tonight. He has really stepped up his game on the outside and his steady wrapping up presence really helps bottle up opponents. Williams is a massive difference maker and not just because he can cover.
2-0
This is the best start Syracuse has experienced since 2018. SU can build on that next week against Purdue.