Here we go. Week two and it brings us a nostalgic “Big East Bash”. Syracuse welcomes UConn for its 2025 home-opener. Last week, the Orange fell short to #24-ranked Tennessee in the Aflac Kickoff. Now they look to bounce back in a big way against the Huskies. Here’s a preview for Syracuse vs. UConn, Saturday at 12:00 p.m. ET.
Syracuse vs. UConn Preview
Very Recent History
Just last year, these two met up in the Dome, and now they’re running back. On November 23 of last year, the Orange beat the Huskies 31-24. In that game, Kyle McCord threw for 470 yards, getting three different targets over 100 yards. This year will be the 14th time the two Atlantic schools clash. Overall, Syracuse has a 7-6 record against the Huskies all-time, winning the last five matchups.
In recent openers, the Orange have won their last three, last losing to Rutgers in 2021. UConn goes to the dome with a better record, winning week one against Central Connecticut, 59-13. It will be a back-and-forth contest. Here’s more on the game, specifically the key players and key moments.
Keys to the Game
Stopping the Run
Without a doubt, last week’s run defense was exposed, so for this game the Orange have to play more tight up front and be consistent in the second level. The Vols ran for 246 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns, stifling the defense. In the case of this week’s game, Syracuse is familiar with UConn running back Cam Edwards.
Last year, Edwards put up 87 yards, but 71 of those yards came in the first quarter on one play. After his explosive run, the Orange held Edwards to only 16 yards for the remaining nine drives. They know Edwards is explosive, as he already ran for 115 yards last week, but if they hold him to under 100 yards, they can dictate the pace of the game.
Creating and Preventing Turnovers
Last year, Syracuse wasn’t able to create a turnover or record a sack against UConn. On top of that, their special teams struggled as they missed two field goals. To win Saturday, they have to clean up the special teams, create pressure in the backfield, and win the turnover margin.
Key Players
Darrel Gill Jr., WR Syracuse
In last year’s game, Gill totaled a career high in receiving yards, 185 yards, and receptions, nine grabs. This offseason, he was recognized by Phil Steele, changed his number from 82 to 15, and was promoted to receiver one. Against Tennessee, he was quiet, bringing in 33 yards. His production will be needed for the Orange to keep up with the under-the-radar Huskie offense. If he can produce like he did against UConn last year, it could be an explosive day for the offense and quarterback Steve Angeli.
Skyler Bell, WR UConn
The fifth-year senior had the best season of his collegiate career with the Huskies last year. Before 2024, Bell played for Wisconsin, never finding consistency, but last year, he broke out, ending the season with 860 yards. When the Huskies played Power Four teams, Bell went off, totaling 415 yards in five games. Against Syracuse, he had 113 yards and 10 grabs. Now this season, he already has 135 yards and two touchdowns, and is looking to make it to the next level.
Both teams have a lot to prove this Saturday, especially Syracuse if they want to make another bowl game in December. It will be interesting to see Demetres Samuel Jr. in his second game and see Jamie Tremble play both ways. Overall should be a back-and-forth affair.
Main Image: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
