Few teams have bigger potential to move up after spring ball than Syracuse, and that's the theme defining this offseason. The Orange went 3-9 in 2025 and responded by churning the roster harder than almost anyone in the league — 29 departures against 19 arrivals, headlined by defensive end Tunmise Adeleye coming over from UNLV. The offense projects as the softer unit, the defense grades out closer to average, and special teams actually stands out as a strength, an uncommon foundation for a team that just posted a losing record. Steven Angeli returns as the starting quarterback, providing continuity at the sport's most important position even as Syracuse lost receivers Johntay Cook and Darrell Gill Jr. to Ole Miss and replaced them with pieces like Miami (OH) transfer Cole Weaver and Western Kentucky tight end Noah Meyers. New defensive coordinator Vince Kehres arrives from Toledo to run a defense that returns with relatively stable continuity, while the offensive coordinator stays in place to work with a unit facing more turnover, including at receiver, where returning target share is thin.

JP+ projects 5.2 wins out of 12 games, a number shaped heavily by the schedule as much as by the roster. Notre Dame at home, and road trips to Virginia and NC State stand out as the toughest tests, while a home date with Cal, a trip to UConn, and a home game against New Hampshire offer the clearest paths to add wins. The gap between that projection and any loftier outside expectations likely comes down to how quickly the retooled receiver corps and new-look defensive front gel under Kehres, especially given the offense's low continuity heading into the season. If Angeli finds quick chemistry with the new pass-catchers and the defense holds up as advertised, Syracuse can exceed 5.2 wins and reestablish itself in the middle of the ACC. If the offensive turnover proves too disruptive, another season hovering near .500 or below is the more likely outcome.