SYRACUSE, NY - The Syracuse Orange kicked off their 2026 football season with an emphatic 66-3 victory against the New Hampshire Wildcats at the JMA Wireless Dome. This dominant performance not only marked a successful start for the Orange but also provided a glimpse into the potential of the team as they aim for a competitive season in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
The Orange established their superiority early in the game, taking control with a powerful first half that set the tone for the remainder of the contest. Head coach Fran Brown's decision to keep the starters on the field longer than some anticipated was justified as they delivered a confidence-boosting performance that could resonate throughout the season.
One of the most significant takeaways from the game was the reassuring performance of quarterback Steve Angeli. After battling an Achilles injury that raised concerns about his readiness, Angeli silenced any doubts with a stellar showing. He completed 20 of 29 passes for 263 yards, throwing three touchdowns without any interceptions. Even after a brief scare in the second quarter when he went down with a minor injury, Angeli quickly returned to the field, demonstrating his resilience and readiness to lead the team moving forward.
In the absence of the top two running backs, Ahmad Miller and Ju’Juan Johnson, Syracuse showcased impressive depth in their backfield. Shavane Anderson and Tylik Hill stepped up admirably, with Anderson particularly shining by rushing for 102 yards and scoring three touchdowns. While New Hampshire may not have posed the same challenge as ACC opponents, the performance of the backup running backs was crucial in establishing that Syracuse has the depth needed to compete effectively if injuries arise later in the season.
Another bright spot for Syracuse was the defensive performance, particularly from transfer Keyshawn Johnson, who made a significant impact in his first game with the team. Johnson, an FCS All-American last season, recorded 2.5 sacks and forced a fumble, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. This improvement in pass-rushing ability is essential for Syracuse, especially given their struggles in this area in the previous season. If Johnson can maintain this level of performance, he could be a key player in the Orange's defensive strategy against tougher ACC opponents.
Despite the overwhelming victory, Syracuse faced some challenges, particularly with discipline. The team committed 12 penalties for a total of 130 yards, which could have hampered their momentum. However, they managed to maintain their offensive flow, scoring on nearly every drive in the first half, except for the opening possession. This ability to overcome self-inflicted adversity is a promising sign for the coaching staff and indicates a level of maturity within the team.
Overall, the Syracuse Orange's 66-3 win over New Hampshire serves as a strong start to their 2026 season. With key players demonstrating their capabilities and the team showing resilience in the face of challenges, Syracuse appears poised to make a significant impact in the ACC this year. As they prepare for upcoming matchups, the confidence gained from this victory will be invaluable.
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