Syracuse vs Connecticut At a Glance
- Location: JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, NY
- Game Time: Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 12:00 PM
- TV Coverage: ACC Network
- Connecticut Huskies Record: 1-0 for the season
- Syracuse Orange Record: 0-1 for the season
- Betting Odds: Syracuse favored with a spread of -6.5
The Syracuse Orange: A Season of Uncertainty and Opportunity
Offensive Performance Overview
The Syracuse Orange have kicked off the 2025 season with an offense generating 26 points per game, positioning them 31st in national rankings. Their aerial attack is more promising, as they rank 37th with 274 passing yards per game. However, their ground game lags significantly at 93rd, only achieving 101 rushing yards on average.
Syracuse’s first game against Tennessee saw them manage 24 first downs, a noteworthy feat placing them 17th. Despite this, they struggled to maintain momentum against a competitive Tennessee defense. Their passing game, led by QB Steve Angeli, shows promise but needs more support from the rushing department.
Defensive Challenges
The Orange’s defense has been tested early, conceding 45 points in their first outing, placing them 31st in points against rankings. Despite the high point allowance, their defensive line showed potential, securing an 8th place ranking with no sacks recorded. The secondary, however, is a strong point with no interceptions allowed, ranking 1st.
Their game against Tennessee exposed vulnerabilities in their run defense, as they allowed 248 rushing yards. They will need to tighten this aspect moving forward to avoid repeating such outcomes. The Orange defense will aim to capitalize on their ability to recover fumbles, ranked 4th, to create turnovers.
Key Offensive Players
Quarterback Steve Angeli has taken the reins with a solid performance, throwing for 274 yards and maintaining a 1:1 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Running back Yasin Willis led the backfield with 91 rushing yards and three touchdowns, reflecting his potential to contribute significantly to the offense. Wide receiver Johntay Cook also made an impact with 58 receiving yards and one touchdown.
Tight end Dan Villari stands out with 55 receiving yards, showcasing his role as a reliable target for Angeli. The team will look to further integrate him into their passing strategy. Syracuse’s receiving corps, though promising, needs consistency to elevate the offensive output.
Injury Concerns
Syracuse faces challenges with injuries, including the loss of offensive lineman Mark Petry for the season due to a torn ACL. Wide receiver Julian McFadden also faces a lengthy absence with a broken collarbone. Defensive back Devin Grant remains questionable, dealing with a leg injury that could impact their defensive depth.
Syracuse Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU Last 5: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU Last 10: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU as Underdog: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU in Day Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU in Home Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS Last 3: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS Last 5: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS Last 10: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS as Underdog: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS in Home Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 5: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 10: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U as Underdog: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U in Home Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Totals ≥ 50: 1-0 (100.0%)
Connecticut Huskies Look to Extend Momentum Against Syracuse
Overview of the Huskies’ Offense
The Connecticut Huskies showcased a dominant offensive performance in their first game of the season, scoring 59 points against Central Connecticut State. Ranked 11th in points for the season, their offense has proven to be efficient and effective. Their passing attack, which ranks 15th, will be crucial as they face tougher competition in Syracuse.
Joe Fagnano stands out as a key player for the Huskies, having thrown for 260 yards and three touchdowns in the opening game. His ability to distribute the ball effectively was evident, as multiple receivers made significant contributions. The rushing attack, with 293 yards, also poses a significant threat to opponents.
Defensive Strengths
Defensively, Connecticut was impressive, allowing only 13 points in their season opener. Their ability to pressure the quarterback with one sack, and limiting turnovers, will be critical against Syracuse. The defense’s strength lies in their ability to control the game and limit scoring opportunities for opponents.
In 2024, Connecticut struggled defensively, ranking 83rd in points against. However, the early signs of improvement in 2025 are promising. With a more robust defensive lineup, they aim to hold strong against a Syracuse team looking to capitalize on any weaknesses.
Key Players to Watch
Cam Edwards, with 115 rushing yards and one touchdown in the first game, is a significant asset in the Huskies’ backfield. His ability to break through defensive lines will be crucial in maintaining a balanced offensive approach. Additionally, Skyler Bell, who had 135 receiving yards and two touchdowns, is poised to be a primary target.
The Huskies’ depth in the receiving corps, including players like Jackson Harper and Reymello Murphy, allows for a versatile passing game. These players provide Fagnano with multiple reliable options downfield, keeping defenses guessing.
Connecticut Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 5: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 10: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 5: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 10: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 5: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 10: 1-0 (100.0%)
Syracuse vs Connecticut Prediction: Connecticut +6.5
The Syracuse Orange are coming off a loss in their season opener, while the Connecticut Huskies enter this game with a win under their belt. Syracuse allowed 45 points in their first game, raising concerns about their defense. On the other hand, Connecticut showed solid offensive capabilities, putting up 59 points in their opener.
Connecticut’s defense looks to be a strength, allowing only 13 points in their first game. With a high-scoring offense and a stout defense, the Huskies are in a good position to keep the game close. The spread of +6.5 for Connecticut appears favorable given their recent form and Syracuse’s defensive struggles.
Syracuse’s ATS trends are not in their favor, as they have failed to cover in their recent games, including at home. Connecticut, meanwhile, covered the spread in their last encounter against Syracuse despite losing the game. This history, coupled with Syracuse’s current ATS woes, points towards Connecticut as the better pick.
With the game being played at Syracuse, the home advantage might not be enough to offset the Huskies’ momentum. Projected final score: Connecticut 31 – Syracuse 28.
- Syracuse vs Connecticut Prediction: Connecticut +6.5
- Syracuse vs Connecticut Score: Connecticut 31 – Syracuse 28
