Syracuse football could be on the brink of a seismic shift. Taking the reins for the Orange this season is none other than Kyle McCord, the former commander of the Ohio State offense. This transfer was a headline-grabber and a shock to many. McCord’s leap to Syracuse, mixed with a schedule that seems almost handpicked for success, tees up the Orange for what could be a banner year.

A gem from the 247Sports Composite, McCord’s five-star status isn’t just for show. His pivot to Syracuse, sealed during an official campus visit, cranks up the Orange’s offensive dial. Steering the Buckeyes to an 11-1 finish last season, McCord’s stats speak volumes: 3,170 yards, 24 TDs, and a 65.8% completion rate. Numbers like these placed him in the conversation for the top of the FBS quarterback heap.

At the helm for Syracuse is Fran Brown, the newly minted head coach. Brown’s not just about X’s and O’s; his recruiting prowess and deep Northeast roots are part of his DNA.

Brown’s coaching odyssey began at Paul VI Catholic High School. He swiftly moved through the ranks at Temple, where he first showcased his knack for transforming defensive backfields and his magnetic pull in recruiting circles.

His journey with Matt Rhule from Temple to Baylor only amplified his reputation as a top-tier recruiter and a defensive strategist. Returning to Temple, this time with added responsibilities as co-defensive coordinator, Brown further cemented his status in the coaching fraternity, even as head coaching opportunities teasingly danced around the edges.

During his tenure with Greg Schiano at Rutgers, Fran Brown experienced a transformative leap forward, setting the stage for his subsequent ascent into the national spotlight at Georgia. In this high-profile role, Brown’s recruiting skills and strategic coaching brilliance reached their zenith, ultimately contributing to a resounding National Championship triumph. This period of his career reached a pinnacle with Brown being honored as the nation’s premier recruiter by 247Sports, a testament to his profound impact on the field.

Brown is considered by many as one of the nation’s premier recruiters, possessing a unique talent for forging authentic connections with high school athletes and their families.

Now, as Syracuse’s 31st head coach, Brown brings more than just a playbook and recruiting strategies. He carries a legacy of soundness, a relentless pursuit of excellence, and a deep-rooted connection to the Northeast’s football fabric.

With the absence of conference heavyweights like North Carolina, Florida State, Clemson, and Louisville from the schedule, this is a chance for Syracuse and their first-year head coach to sharpen their game without the shadow of the conference giants looming over them. Coupled with portal newcomers like McCord, Edge Fadil Diggs, and Jackson Meeks at wide receiver, this could give the Orange early success.

Going into the season with McCord’s arm, Brown’s vision, and a schedule that might as well be a golden ticket, Syracuse and Fran Brown are not just dreaming of greatness in his first year; they’re on the cusp of it and reaching for it. The stage is set, the players are ready, and the Syracuse faithful are buzzing. As Coach Brown put it during his introduction as the Orange’s head coach, “I am competitive. I need to win at everything. You can’t chew gum faster than me. I’m going to win at everything, and we’re about to go shock the country.”