Syracuse Football Looks to Bounce Back Against Pittsburgh

Syracuse, N.Y. — Syracuse football returns from its bye week Saturday night for a critical Homecoming game against Pittsburgh. The Orange, with a record of 3-3 and 1-2 in the ACC, aims to halt a two-game losing streak. Pittsburgh stands at 4-2 overall and 2-1 in the conference, coming off a strong performance in recent games.

Last year’s matchup at Pittsburgh was a tough one for Syracuse. A win this Saturday would help restore confidence and propel the team closer to the top half of the ACC standings, especially with three ranked opponents looming on the schedule.

Syracuse head coach Fran Brown faces a challenging second half of the season. After a disheartening 38-3 loss to Duke and a subsequent defeat to Southern Methodist University, the team is searching for solutions. Sophomore running back Yasin Willis noted that quarterback Rickie Collins sometimes hurries his decision-making.

Collins admitted, “I need to do better, obviously, relaxing my eyes. At times, I may get locked onto something.” Currently, he has thrown three touchdowns against five interceptions this season, with a completion rate of 55.2% and the highest turnover-worthy play rate among FBS quarterbacks with at least 60 snaps.

The Orange defense, which has struggled against running backs this season, must contend with Pittsburgh’s Desmond Reid, a standout with 1,545 all-purpose yards and nine total touchdowns last year. Reid shone last week with two receiving touchdowns and 155 yards.

Defensive coordinator Elijah Robinson received criticism for questionable play-calling in the recent losses. Brown stated he would maintain confidence in his coaching staff. “We’re going to let those guys continue to do it,” he said. “They understand my vision now and see exactly what we’re looking for.”

Despite calls for freshman quarterback Luke Carney, Collins remains the starter for now. Carney did score a rushing touchdown earlier this season, and he mentioned feeling prepared to contribute if needed. “I feel confident with what I’ve been able to show in practice,” Carney said.

Pitt will feature true freshman Mason Heintschel at quarterback, who has provided a spark with six touchdown passes in three games. Heintschel’s explosiveness will challenge Syracuse’s secondary, which has seen average performance this year.

This matchup marks the 81st meeting between Syracuse and Pitt, with the Panthers holding 44 wins to the Orange’s 20. Syracuse has struggled defensively lately, allowing an average of 34.5 points over their last two contests, while Pitt has scored an average of 41.

Injury reports show wide receiver Justus Ross-Simmons is expected to play after a recent ankle sprain. Freshman Darius Johnson is also anticipated to make his season debut. However, redshirt senior Umari Hatcher will not play. Syracuse must also address injuries to several offensive linemen and linebackers as they prepare for this crucial game.

As Syracuse looks to avoid falling below .500 for the first time this season, the outcome against Pittsburgh could determine the direction of their campaign. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. on Saturday in the JMA Wireless Dome.