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In a thrilling overtime contest on Saturday, Syracuse (2-2, 0-2) snapped its losing streak with a 42-41 win over UConn (2-3). The victory was particularly significant as it marked the Orange's first triumph over an FBS opponent since a 34-21 upset of Clemson in Death Valley on September 20, 2025.
Amari Odom, making his first start at quarterback for Syracuse, delivered a stellar performance, passing for five touchdowns and adding another on the ground. His dynamic play sparked an offense that had struggled in previous weeks.
Amari Odom Solidifies Starting Role
Odom's exceptional outing has made a strong case for him to remain the full-time starting quarterback. Despite head coach Fran Brown's Monday declaration that Steve Angeli would retain the starting job, Brown later informed both quarterbacks that Odom would get the nod as early as Thursday. The bold decision paid immediate dividends.
Although Odom's stat line showed only seven rushes for -2 yards, his impact went far beyond the numbers. The Kennesaw State transfer used his speed and elusiveness to extend plays and executed a series of moves on his rushing touchdown. In contrast, Angeli's lack of mobility had plagued the Orange through the first three games, as he took eight sacks and threw five interceptions. Odom, meanwhile, kept the Huskies' defensive line at bay, surrendering just two sacks despite constant pressure.
After torching UConn's secondary for over 200 yards and three touchdowns in the first half, Odom was held in check after the break. Nevertheless, his overall performance has earned him the starting job for next week's matchup against Virginia and potentially for the remainder of the season.
Tylik Hill Breaks Out in a Big Way
While Odom's six total touchdowns were crucial, running back Tylik Hill deserves recognition for his gritty effort. Hill amassed 140 rushing yards on 28 carries, all while battling the lingering effects of a quad injury. He visibly limped in the fourth quarter and overtime but still delivered multiple key runs to sustain drives and momentum. He also contributed a significant catch-and-run to set up a score.
For a Syracuse backfield that has relied on a committee approach and struggled for consistency, Hill's performance was a statement. The last Orange running back to rush for as many yards in a single game was LeQuint Allen Jr. in 2024. Even more impressive, Hill's breakout came after he recorded just two carries in the previous game against Pitt. If he can suit up against Virginia, he should be at the top of the depth chart.
Second-Half Collapse Raises Concerns
Syracuse appeared in control after a stunning 4th-and-28 touchdown gave them a 34-14 lead midway through the third quarter. However, the Orange unraveled over the final 20 minutes of regulation. The defense allowed UConn to score at the end of the third and start of the fourth, then surrendered a 71-yard touchdown run by Cyncir Bowers that tied the game at 34.
Following their touchdown drive to open the third quarter, Syracuse's offense stalled on its next five possessions. Odom threw an interception on the first play of the ensuing drive, then turned the ball over on downs, and later threw another pick after a punt. Despite the collapse, Syracuse had a chance to win in regulation, but true freshman Shay Barker missed a 44-yard field goal wide right—the Orange's third missed kick of the game—forcing overtime.
In the extra period, Syracuse escaped with the win thanks to a Hatcher touchdown on fourth-and-long and a decisive two-point conversion run by Odom. Still, the sloppy finish could prove costly against tougher opponents on the schedule. A win is a win, but the second-half struggles show there is still work to be done.
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Henry Daley is a writer for The Juice Online with On SI. His work has featured on other platforms such as The Daily Orange, RocketsWire, FanSided, The Lead, and Last Word on Sports. Follow henrydaleyy.