Kyle McCord entered Friday’s Holiday Bowl looking to make history. The Syracuse quarterback was in striking distance of Deshaun Watson’s ACC single-season passing record, needing 267 yards to reach that plateau. With the anticipation building, fans wondered if he could pull it off in front of a national audience.
Kyle McCord completes historic season at Syracuse
As the game kicked off, McCord showcased his skills right from the start. He entered the Holiday Bowl as one of the top passers in the nation, averaging an impressive 360.5 passing yards per game, which led the FBS. Additionally, he was tied for fifth in the country with 29 passing touchdowns. Could he maintain this momentum against a formidable opponent like Washington State? The first half suggested he could, as he racked up 218 yards and three touchdowns, setting the stage for a potential record-breaking second half.
McCord breaks record in stunning fashion
In the second half, McCord did not disappoint. With a swift connection to Darrell Gill Jr. for a 50-yard pass on his first attempt of the third quarter, he reached 268 yards on the night. This remarkable play catapulted him to the top of the ACC’s all-time single-season passing yards list, breaking Watson’s previous record set at Clemson in 2016. The crowd erupted in cheers as history was made right before their eyes.
All told, during Friday’s game, McCord finished with a staggering 453 passing yards and five touchdowns, leading Syracuse to a commanding 52-28 victory over Washington State. This performance brought his season total to 4,779 passing yards—nearly 200 more than Watson’s previous record of 4,593 yards. How incredible is that?
McCord reflects on his journey
After the game, McCord accepted the Holiday Bowl Offensive MVP trophy with heartfelt gratitude. “It means the world,” he said, beaming with pride. “Coming here a year ago, just to see how it all worked out, it’s exactly what he said it would be. To be standing on this stage with 10 wins and these guys behind me, it means the world.” His journey from Ohio State to Syracuse has been nothing short of remarkable, and this night was the culmination of hard work and determination.
McCord’s path to Syracuse
Prior to his historic season at Syracuse, McCord spent three years at Ohio State, where he served as the Buckeyes’ starter in 2023. During his junior year, he threw for 3,170 yards and 24 touchdowns, showcasing his potential. However, after the season, he decided to enter the transfer portal with one year of eligibility remaining. What a decision that turned out to be! He made the most of his opportunity at Syracuse, and now he stands alone atop the ACC’s single-season passing yards list.
Coach Brown’s thanks to Ohio State
Throughout the season, Syracuse head coach Fran Brown has expressed his gratitude to Ohio State coach Ryan Day for allowing McCord to come to Syracuse. After the regular season, Brown reiterated his appreciation, making it clear he wasn’t joking or being disrespectful. “I’m happy that Kyle was able to go and clear his name, come here and show that he’s a good quarterback,” Brown said. “I got ridiculed for stating that I wanted to send Ryan Day a bottle of champagne. I was just saying, this guy’s the real deal, and you guys let him come here. Like, great, thank you.”
Brown’s enthusiasm was palpable as he added, “I still owe him. Should send him some more, should send him a (expletive) case, not even a bottle. Excuse my language, but just extremely excited and thankful for Kyle.” It’s clear that McCord’s success has not only elevated his own career but has also brought immense pride to his coaching staff and teammates.
McCord’s impact on the team
McCord’s performance this season has been a game-changer for Syracuse. Under Brown’s leadership, the Orange aimed for a 10-win season, and McCord’s contributions were pivotal in achieving that goal. With his impressive stats and record-breaking achievements, he has not only solidified his place in ACC history but has also inspired his teammates to elevate their game. The chemistry he built with his receivers, especially Gill Jr., was evident in their explosive plays throughout the season.
As the season comes to a close, fans and analysts alike are left in awe of McCord’s incredible journey. From a promising start at Ohio State to breaking records at Syracuse, he has proven that hard work and determination can lead to remarkable achievements. With his eyes set on the future, one can only wonder what’s next for this talented quarterback. Will he continue to break records and lead his team to new heights? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Kyle McCord has made his mark in college football history.
