Syracuse Opens Season With 66-3 Rout

Syracuse opened its 2026 football season with a dominant 66-3 victory over New Hampshire, ending an eight-game losing streak that extended from the previous season. Quarterback Steve Angeli returned from the torn Achilles he suffered in 2025 and looked sharp, including a touchdown pass to Umari Hatcher, though the game provided only a limited test against an FCS opponent. The Orange relied heavily on its running game after establishing an early lead, while the defense kept New Hampshire from posing a serious threat. Syracuse also entered the season with an unresolved backup-quarterback competition between transfers Malachi Nelson and Amari Odom, although the blowout allowed the team to manage Angeli’s workload. The performance gave Syracuse an encouraging start as it seeks to return to bowl contention.

