BySyracuse took the lead early in the first quarter and never looked back. Quarterback Garrett Shrader threw for 223 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Sean Tucker rushed for 139 yards and a score. The Orange's defense forced three turnovers, including two interceptions and a fumble recovery.
Miami made a late push in the fourth quarter, scoring two touchdowns to cut the Syracuse lead to 35-32. However, a crucial interception by Syracuse safety Ja'Had Carter with under three minutes remaining sealed the victory for the Orange.
"Syracuse put together a complete performance," said ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit. "They controlled the game on both sides of the ball and made the plays when they needed to."
Syracuse entered the game as underdogs, having lost to Miami earlier in the season. However, the Orange played inspired football in front of a raucous home crowd. The win marks Syracuse's first ACC Championship appearance since 2018 and their first victory over Miami since 2017.
Syracuse will face the winner of the Clemson-Florida State matchup in the ACC Championship game on December 3rd. The Orange will be looking to cap off a season that has exceeded expectations and make program history with their first ACC championship since 1959.
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