Is Kyle McCord The Next Great Syracuse Superstar?




Coming into the 2023 season, expectations were low for a turnaround at Syracuse football. After all, the team hadn't finished above .500 since 2018, and had only won 17 games in the past four years combined. But with a new coaching staff led by Dino Babers and a number of talented recruits, the Orange faithful were hoping for a glimmer of hope.
Enter Kyle McCord, a transfer quarterback from Ohio State who quickly emerged as the team's leader and spark plug. The 6'3", 220-pound signal-caller has NFL size and arm talent, but what sets him apart is his maturity, poise, and leadership. From day one, McCord has commanded the respect of his teammates and coaches, and his steady hand has guided the Orange to a surprising 6-2 start.
McCord's numbers speak for themselves. He leads the ACC in passing yards (2,800) and touchdowns (24), and has yet to throw an interception. He is also completing nearly 70% of his passes, a remarkable feat for a first-year starter. But it's McCord's intangibles that have really impressed his coaches.
"Kyle is a winner," Babers said. "He's a great leader, he's smart, and he's tough. He has all the qualities you look for in a quarterback."
McCord's teammates agree.
"Kyle is a natural leader," said running back Sean Tucker. "He's always positive, always encouraging, and he always puts the team first. He's the kind of guy you want to follow into battle."
With McCord at the helm, Syracuse is suddenly a force to be reckoned with. They are currently ranked 22nd in the AP Top 25, and they have a legitimate chance of winning the ACC Coastal Division. If they can continue to play at a high level, they could even make a run at the College Football Playoff.
While it's still early in his Syracuse career, McCord has already shown that he has the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in the country. He has all the tools to succeed, and he is surrounded by a talented team. If he can continue to develop and play at a high level, there is no limit to what he and the Syracuse Orange can achieve.