Syracuse Orange football fans have been handed a sobering preseason outlook, as veteran analyst Brad Crawford of CBS Sports projects the team to finish the 2026 campaign with a 3‑9 record, echoing the exact mark they posted a year earlier.
A Forecast That Mirrors Past Struggles
The prediction comes despite a schedule that, on paper, offers several matchups that could be within reach for the Orange, especially if they can tighten up in key areas.
A Schedule That Balances Challenge and Chance
The 2026 slate features games against New Hampshire, California, Pittsburgh, UConn, Virginia, Louisville, North Carolina, SMU, Clemson, North Carolina State, Boston College, and Notre Dame, a mix that includes both traditional rivals and non‑conference foes.
While the cumulative record of those twelve opponents sits at 92‑62 from the previous season, the Orange will still have chances to pick up victories, particularly against New Hampshire, UConn, Boston College, California, Pittsburgh, Virginia, North Carolina, Clemson, and North Carolina State, all of which were identified as potential win‑able games.
Key Matchups to Watch
Notably, the Orange avoid a direct clash with Miami, a team that reached the College Football Playoff title game last season, which could spare them from an early stumble.
Beyond Football: A Glimpse at Syracuse Women’s Basketball
In contrast to the football outlook, the Syracuse women’s basketball program exceeded preseason expectations, finishing fifth in the ACC standings during the 2025‑26 term, a sign that the athletic department is trending upward in multiple sports.
If the Orange can translate that momentum to the gridiron, the projection of five to eight wins becomes plausible, especially with targeted improvements on both sides of the ball.