Syracuse Football Shakes Up Quarterback Position with Freshman Joe Filardi

Syracuse, NY — The Syracuse Orange have made a significant change in their football lineup, naming true freshman Joe Filardi as the starting quarterback ahead of their game against the North Carolina Tar Heels on Friday night. Filardi, a walk-on for the football team and a scholarship player for the lacrosse team, becomes the third quarterback for Syracuse this season.

Filardi, who is 6-foot-1 and weighs 195 pounds, has had a remarkable high school career at Half Hollow Hills West on Long Island. During his senior year, he threw for 3,115 yards and 43 touchdowns while also rushing for 1,138 yards and 12 touchdowns. He was recognized as a 2024 USA Lacrosse All-American and is ranked as the No. 52 recruit in the Class of 2025 by Inside Lacrosse.

The decision to start Filardi comes after a disappointing performance from previous starter Rickie Collins, who has struggled in his four starts, leading to no wins and throwing more interceptions than touchdowns. Collins took over the starting role after Steve Angeli suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in a game against Clemson.

Syracuse head coach Fran Brown indicated the move to Filardi was necessary, stating that competition is crucial for the team to improve. “I love Rickie, man. He’s a little brother to me. But we need an opportunity to win,” Brown said.

Filardi’s transition from lacrosse to football has drawn attention in recent weeks as the Orange have struggled to find consistent quarterback play. Filardi decided to skip his final high school lacrosse season so he could join the football team early, participating in spring practices.

His lacrosse coaches have expressed confidence in his abilities, highlighting his calm demeanor and leadership skills on the field. “He’s a natural leader with an unusual level of sports savvy and maturity,” said Connor Hughes, his high school lacrosse coach.

Filardi’s father, Gerald, is a former Penn State linebacker and current high school football coach at Half Hollow Hills West. Joseph Filardi will look to prove himself during this historic moment in his young career as Syracuse faces off against North Carolina tonight at 7:30 p.m. ET, with the game televised on ESPN.