Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG – The Hokies are set to kick off November with a trip to New York, riding the momentum of their first three-game win streak since 2019. This weekend’s matchup marks the 21st meeting between Virginia Tech and Syracuse, as the Hokies gear up for their second-to-last road game of the regular season. Kickoff is scheduled for noon ET on Saturday, Nov. 2, with live coverage on The CW. In this week’s edition of Know the Foe, presented by AAA, we’ll break down what to expect from the Orange and how the Hokies stack up in this ACC clash.
Syracuse reached its second straight bowl game last season, wrapping up with a 6-7 record. However, it was the Orange's fourth losing season in five years, leading to the dismissal of head coach Dino Babers after eight seasons. One of those losses was a 38-10 blowout in Blacksburg, where Hokies’ running back Bhayshul Tuten racked up 118 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries, while quarterback Kyron Drones connected with Da’Quan Felton three times for 80 yards and two scores.
Now under the leadership of first-year head coach Fran Brown, Syracuse has shown signs of improvement, starting the season 5-2 overall and 2-2 in conference play. Brown, who came from Georgia as a defensive backs coach, has already made an impact, bringing in the program’s first top 40 recruiting class since 2001 and strengthening the roster with key transfer portal additions—including former Ohio State quarterback Kyle McCord.
Offensive coordinator Jeff Nixon, previously a running backs coach with the New York Giants, has installed a balanced attack that leans on both the pass and the run. McCord, a traditional pocket passer, has thrown for 2,481 yards this season, excelling in clean-pocket and deep-passing situations. He’s developed chemistry with top targets Jackson Meeks, who has 512 receiving yards and three touchdowns, and Trebor Pena, who’s posted 509 yards and five scores.
On the ground, the Orange are powered by running back LeQuint Allen, who has 481 rushing yards and four touchdowns, adding another dimension to their balanced offense. However, this unit will be tested by a Hokies defense that has found its rhythm, particularly in the secondary. Virginia Tech’s defense has seven interceptions this season, including two in the win over Georgia Tech. Linebackers Jaden Keller and Caleb Woodson have also emerged as key contributors, each with 47 total tackles, while defensive lineman Antwaun Powell-Ryland has been a disruptive force, recording 11 sacks.
A significant concern for Syracuse is quarterback Kyle McCord’s limited mobility, which becomes a liability when he’s under pressure. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), his 33.5 passing grade under duress ranked among the worst in the nation last season and contributed to Ohio State's loss to Michigan. This year, against No. 18 Pittsburgh—a defense ranked 11th nationally in sacks—McCord managed only a 44.2 passing grade. Additionally, his lack of rushing ability further diminishes his effectiveness on the ground. With a combination of tight coverage and relentless pressure, the Hokies' defense is well-positioned to disrupt Syracuse's offensive rhythm.
In terms of defense, Syracuse employs a 4-2-5 scheme that allows for increased pass rush potential against opponents. Last season, the Orange ranked 31st among FBS teams in team coverage grade (87.4) according to PFF, returning several key contributors from that unit. Safeties Justin Barron and Alijah Clark are back, both ranking among the ACC's top three highest-graded players at their position last year. Barron, a standout player, leads the team in tackles this season with 46 and has also recorded one interception.
The defensive line features Texas A&M transfer Fadil Diggs, who is fifth on the team in tackles and has tallied four sacks. Meanwhile, the Orange’s top linebacker, Derek McDonald, has contributed 44 tackles, providing a solid presence in the middle of the field.
Virginia Tech’s previous success against Syracuse and their momentum coming into this matchup create an exciting opportunity for the Hokies. A win would not only mark their fourth straight victory but also clinch a second consecutive bowl game under head coach Brent Pry. With the Orange coming off a decisive loss to No. 18 Pittsburgh, the Hokies have an opportunity to keep rolling as they push toward postseason eligibility.
The Hokies will return to Blacksburg on Saturday, Nov. 9, against No. 11 Clemson for the Stripe Effect matchup. While this game is sold out, fans eager to secure their spot for this matchup can still explore single-game ticket options on SeatGeek, the official fan-to-fan ticket marketplace for Virginia Tech Athletics.