Before the 2025 Syracuse Football season kicks off, let’s rewind to an unforgettable 2024! From McCord’s record-breaking passing to multiple NFL Draft picks, the Orange delivered a thrilling performance. But what truly defined this pivotal year for Syracuse Athletics?
As the anticipation builds for the impending 2025 season, it’s timely to reflect on the remarkable achievements and pivotal moments of the 2024 Syracuse Football campaign, a year that saw the Orange Athletics program make significant strides and establish a formidable foundation for future success. This retrospective delves into the key performances and strategic plays that defined a truly memorable season for College Football enthusiasts.
The early glimpses of the Syracuse Football offense during the spring game foreshadowed a potent and dynamic aerial attack. Quarterback McCord Quarterback demonstrated exceptional command, orchestrating a pass-heavy scheme that efficiently distributed the ball across a diverse group of receivers, alongside the versatile running back LeQuint Allen. This offensive philosophy carried into the regular season opener against Ohio, where the Orange amassed an impressive 480 yards, with McCord distributing touchdown passes to four different targets, signaling a high-octane offensive unit.
Despite early season challenges, the team under coach Brown displayed remarkable resilience and tactical adjustments, culminating in a powerful late-season surge. Syracuse Football concluded their schedule with three consecutive victories, including an exhilarating 42-38 comeback triumph at the JMA Wireless Dome. This decisive win secured a 9-3 overall record, marking the first time in six seasons the program had achieved such a strong finish and earning them a coveted invitation to the Holiday Bowl against Washington State.
The 2024 Season Review unequivocally highlighted the extraordinary performance of McCord Quarterback. He not only led the nation with an astounding 4,779 passing yards but also threw an impressive 34 touchdown passes. His ability to consistently dissect opposing defenses and make critical throws was a cornerstone of the Orange Athletics success, cementing his status as one of College Football’s elite signal-callers.
McCord’s individual brilliance was amplified by the exceptional talent surrounding him. Four different Syracuse Football players each hauled in at least 64 passes, with three of them surpassing the 930-receiving-yard mark. Additionally, running back LeQuint Allen was a scoring machine, tallying 20 total touchdowns, underscoring the formidable and multifaceted nature of the Orange Athletics offense.
The individual accomplishments of the 2024 Season Review extended well beyond the final whistle, with significant implications for the professional ranks. A testament to the program’s player development, four standout athletes – Diggs, Allen, Oronde Gadsden II, and McCord Quarterback himself – were all selected in the 2025 NFL Draft Prospects. This remarkable achievement underscored the caliber of talent fostered within the Syracuse Football program.
However, the 2024 Season Review also brought to light areas for improvement, particularly within special teams. Despite punter Jack Stonehouse’s respectable statistical line, the unit allowed three blocked punts. Furthermore, the team utilized three different placekickers, resulting in a blocked extra point and a blocked field goal, as the trio collectively converted only 13 of 22 field goal attempts. Addressing these inconsistencies will be crucial for the Orange Athletics moving forward.
Ultimately, the 2024 Syracuse Football season stands as a pivotal chapter in the program’s history. It was a year defined by offensive explosions, defensive resilience, and the emergence of several NFL Draft Prospects. As the team prepares for 2025, the lessons learned and the triumphs celebrated from the 2024 Season Review will undoubtedly fuel their ambition for continued excellence in the competitive landscape of College Football.
