The highly anticipated Atlantic Coast Conference Preseason Media Poll has cast its verdict, positioning the Syracuse Orange football program at a modest 12th. This ranking sets a compelling narrative for the upcoming season, as the Orange look to defy expectations and build upon their recent successes despite a challenging outlook within the competitive ACC landscape.
The comprehensive poll results, which saw defending champion Clemson secure the top spot with an overwhelming majority of first-place votes, were compiled from over 180 credentialed media members who submitted their ballots following last week’s conference media days. Such early season assessments offer a crucial barometer for teams, hinting at the perceived strengths and weaknesses across the league ahead of kickoff.
Despite their 12th-place preseason standing, Syracuse enters the new campaign with the momentum of a strong finish to the previous year. Under the leadership of first-year head coach Fran Brown, the Orange concluded the 2024-25 season with an impressive 10-3 record, earning a coveted No. 20 ranking in the final College Football Playoff poll, showcasing their potential and resilience on the national stage.
However, the Orange roster has undergone significant changes since their successful run, with several pivotal members from that formidable team departing. Notable losses include star quarterback Kyle McCord, dynamic running back Lequint Allen, stalwart defensive lineman Fadil Diggs, and reliable tight end Oronde Gadsden II. These departures undoubtedly present a strategic challenge for Coach Brown and his staff as they aim to retool and maintain a competitive edge.
The path to climbing the ACC standings appears formidable for Syracuse, especially given a daunting schedule that features several high-caliber opponents. Key matchups against perennial powerhouse Clemson, rising contender SMU, and a strong Miami program are highlighted as particularly difficult tests. These teams consistently ranked among the top contenders in the ACC during the 2024 season, promising intense battles for the Orange.
At the pinnacle of the ACC Preseason Media Poll stands the Clemson Tigers, unanimously voted as the preseason No. 1 by 167 ballots. Clemson’s dominance in the conference is underscored by their consistent performance, including a 10-4 season that culminated in a College Football Playoff appearance and a No. 14 finish in the final AP Poll, solidifying their status as the team to beat.
As the Syracuse Orange prepare for their season, their 12th-place ranking in the ACC Preseason Poll serves as a reminder of the competitive road ahead. With a blend of promising talent and strategic challenges posed by key departures and a tough schedule, the Syracuse Orange football program will be closely watched as they strive to exceed preseason poll expectations and make their mark in ACC Football.
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