#18 Syracuse football advanced to 6-0 on the season, after defeating #15 N.C. State at home, becoming bowl eligible for the post-season.
Then-No. 18 Syracuse football (5-0 overall, 2-0 in the ACC) took on the #15 N.C. State Wolfpack (5-1 overall, 1-1 in the ACC) at the JMA Wireless Dome on Saturday. The Orange offense and defense would hold the Wolfpack to field goals only, as the #18 Orange got the upset win over the #15 Wolfpack, 24-9. We have your grades for the Orange from this game.
Syracuse Orange Offense: A-
The Orange offense came out firing and did not let up, as quarterback Garrett Shrader would complete 16 of his 25 passes for 210 yards for two touchdowns and two interceptions, both touchdown passes connecting with Oronde Gadsden ll for 141 yards on eight receptions. Sean Tucker would put the nail in the coffin for this game as he rushed for 98 yards and one touchdown.
The offense was on point this game and was the main reason for the Orange picking up the victory over the Wolfpack.
Syracuse Orange Defense: A+
The Syracuse defense was on-point this game, only allowing 255 of offense from the Wolfpack. Marlowe Wax would lead the Orange defense this game with 10 total tackles, 7 of them being solo tackles, with Mikel Jones getting seven total tackles, one being a sack late in the game.
Overall, the defense really stepped up for the Orange, holding the N.C. State offense to field goals and not allowing much offense down the field this game.
Overall Grade for the Orange: A
#18 Syracuse was the better team this game, as they came out firing on offense, slowing down the Wolfpack offense, and doing their best to not allow the opponent to get into the game overall.
With the win, the #18 Syracuse Orange advance to 6-0 overall for the third time since 1935 and are now bowl-eligible for the upcoming post-season. They have a tough road ahead, as this coming week they take on the #5 Clemson Tigers on the road.