Syracuse quarterback Steve Angeli’s season came to a screeching halt after he tore his Achilles during the Orange’s blowout win over Clemson. An MRI confirmed the injury, and just like that, Angeli’s out for the year.
It’s a tough blow. Angeli was having a heck of a season, sitting second in the nation in passing yards. The injury happened in game four, so word is he’ll go for a medical redshirt — that could leave him with two more years to play.
Now, Syracuse has to pivot. Rickie Collins, a transfer from LSU, is next up as they get ready to host Duke this Saturday.
Steve Angeli’s Impactful Season Cut Short
Angeli, a first-year starter at Syracuse after transferring from Notre Dame, wasted no time making an impression. He took over an offense that led the nation in passing last season and didn’t seem fazed at all.
Just look at the numbers:
- 1,316 passing yards – Second in the nation
- 10 touchdown passes
- Two interceptions
- 156 attempts – Third in the country
He adapted fast, torching Clemson for 244 yards and two touchdowns before his season-ending injury. Honestly, he was a huge part of why Syracuse’s offense clicked this year.
Medical Redshirt and Future Eligibility
With the injury happening so early, Angeli’s expected to apply for a medical redshirt. That’d let him stick around for up to two more seasons at Syracuse.
It’s a lucky break in an unlucky situation. He’ll have more time to develop and maybe boost his shot at the pros down the road.
The Transition to Rickie Collins
Syracuse has to move forward without Angeli, so now it’s Rickie Collins’ turn. The LSU transfer stepped in after halftime against Clemson and did alright, going 3-for-8 for 34 yards and a touchdown.
The Orange played it safe to lock down their 34-21 win, but Collins showed a little spark in the limited snaps he got.
Collins’ Background and Potential
Collins came to Syracuse from LSU, where he got a taste of high-level competition. That experience could help now that he’s suddenly in the spotlight.
His first career start comes against Duke, and honestly, who knows how he’ll handle the pressure? Everyone’s curious to see if he can steady the ship.
Looking Ahead: Syracuse vs. Duke
This Saturday, Syracuse hosts Duke. It’ll be Collins’ first start, and yeah, it’s a big one.
The Orange need him to step up and fill the gap left by Angeli’s injury. No pressure, right?
Keys to Success for Syracuse
If Syracuse is going to pull this off, a few things have to go right:
- Strong Offensive Line – Collins needs time and space to work.
- Effective Running Game – A solid ground attack could take some heat off the new QB.
- Defensive Performance – The defense can’t let up now; they need to keep backing up the offense.
Get those pieces in place and, honestly, Syracuse has a shot to keep the good vibes rolling this season.
Conclusion
Steve Angeli’s season-ending injury is a huge blow for Syracuse. The team has had to dig deep and adapt fast.
Rickie Collins steps in now, and honestly, it’s his moment to show what he’s got. There’s a bit of uncertainty, but also some real excitement to see if he can lead the offense.
Syracuse is gearing up to face Duke next. The spotlight’s on Collins, and the coaches are doing what they can to support him in his first start.
This game feels like it could shape the rest of the season. Fans are definitely tuned in, waiting to see how the team handles everything that’s been thrown at them.
For more on Steve Angeli’s injury and Syracuse’s next steps, check out the original report on ESPN’s website here.
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