Syracuse University celebrated a monumental achievement as they clinched a thrilling 52-35 victory over Washington State in the Holiday Bowl. This win marked the Orange’s first bowl victory since the 2018 Camping World Bowl and their 10th win of the season, a feat not accomplished since 2018. The star of the night was undoubtedly Kyle McCord, who dazzled fans with an impressive performance, throwing for 453 yards and five touchdowns.
Syracuse’s Remarkable Comeback
Despite falling behind early, Syracuse showcased resilience and determination. Washington State initially held a 21-14 lead after the first quarter, but the Orange quickly turned the tide. McCord’s leadership on the field was pivotal, as he orchestrated long drives that shifted momentum in Syracuse’s favor. By halftime, they had established a 35-21 lead, leaving the Cougars scrambling to catch up.
Key Performers of the Game
McCord’s passing was complemented by a strong ground game led by LeQuint Allen, who contributed significantly with 120 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. Allen also caught a touchdown pass, demonstrating his versatility and importance to the team. Trebor Pena shone as a receiver, racking up 70 receiving yards and scoring two touchdowns. Oronde Gadsden II also made his mark with 74 receiving yards and two touchdowns, showcasing the depth of Syracuse’s offensive capabilities.
On the other side, Washington State’s Zevi Eckhaus put up a commendable fight, completing 31 of 43 passes for 363 yards and three touchdowns. However, the Cougars struggled to maintain their early momentum, managing only 14 points in the second half as Syracuse’s defense tightened its grip.
A Season of Triumph for Syracuse
This victory is a testament to the successful first season of head coach Fran Brown. Syracuse’s transformation this year has been remarkable, with the team benefiting greatly from McCord’s transfer from Ohio State. His ability to lead the offense has been a game-changer, and his performance in the Holiday Bowl only solidified his potential future in the NFL.
With this win, Syracuse not only celebrates a bowl victory but also sets the stage for a promising future. The Orange are poised to build on this success as they look ahead to the 2025 season, aiming to continue their upward trajectory.
Game Summary and Scoring Breakdown
The scoring in the Holiday Bowl was a rollercoaster of excitement, with both teams exchanging blows throughout the game. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key moments:
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1st Quarter:
- Washington State struck first with a four-yard TD run by Zevi Eckhaus.
- Syracuse responded with a 19-yard TD pass to Trebor Pena, narrowing the gap.
- The Orange took the lead with a 12-yard TD run by LeQuint Allen.
- The Cougars answered back with a 66-yard TD pass to Kyle Williams, regaining the lead.
- A blocked punt return by Josh Meredith put Washington State ahead at 21-14.
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2nd Quarter:
- Syracuse tied the game with an 18-yard TD pass to Oronde Gadsden II.
- Allen scored again with a two-yard TD run, giving Syracuse the lead.
- McCord connected with Gadsden II for another touchdown, ending the half at 35-21.
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3rd Quarter:
- Washington State scored with a 42-yard TD pass to Carlos Hernandez, closing the gap to 35-28.
- Syracuse responded with a 45-yard TD pass to Trebor Pena, extending their lead to 42-28.
- 4th Quarter:
- Jackson Kennedy added a 30-yard field goal for Syracuse.
- McCord capped off his night with a 33-yard TD pass to LeQuint Allen.
- Washington State managed a late touchdown, but it was too little, too late, as the game ended 52-35.
Looking Forward
As Syracuse celebrates this significant victory, they also reflect on a season filled with challenges and triumphs. The Orange have shown that they can compete at a high level, and with a strong foundation laid by Coach Brown and the contributions of players like McCord and Allen, the future looks bright.
Meanwhile, Washington State, despite the loss, can take pride in their season. The Cougars faced adversity with the departure of several key players to the transfer portal but managed to secure a solid record of 8-5. Their resilience under coach Jake Dickert, now at Wake Forest, showcases the competitive spirit of college football.
In the end, this Holiday Bowl was not just a game; it was a celebration of college football, showcasing the talent, determination, and heart that define the sport. As fans look ahead to the next season, one thing is clear: both Syracuse and Washington State are teams to watch in the coming years.
