Syracuse football hasn’t been known for consistent quarterback play in recent years. In 2024, Ohio State transfer Kyle McCord gave the Orange a spark and helped bring the national spotlight back to the Dome. Now, the QB competition is settled for 2025: Steve Angeli has officially been named Syracuse’s starting quarterback.
Angeli arrives from Notre Dame, where he waited for his turn behind veteran signal-callers. When his number was finally called, he made the most of it—showcasing poise, efficiency and the ability to execute within structure. For a Syracuse program hungry to climb the ACC standings, this pairing feels like the right fit.
Offensive Fit and Identity
The 2024 Orange offense leaned on balance: a physical ground game paired with a quick, efficient passing attack. With Angeli under center, that identity could evolve into something even more dangerous.
Angeli thrives in tempo, RPO concepts and rhythm-based passing, which fit perfectly with what Syracuse wants to be. He isn’t a backyard improviser, but his ability to stay on schedule, keep the chains moving and throw with purpose makes him the type of quarterback who raises the floor of an entire offense. Expect more consistent timing throws, play-action shots and a passing game that complements the run while forcing defenses to stay honest.
Angeli’s Strengths
• Decision-making: At Notre Dame, Angeli threw 10 touchdowns against just one interception. He protects the football, which is exactly what Syracuse needs.
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• Accuracy and ball placement: He consistently puts the ball where only his receivers can make a play. That precision will unlock more yards after catch opportunities.
• Mobility: While not an explosive runner, Angeli can extend plays and pick up critical yards with his legs. It’s a hidden part of his game that keeps defenses on edge.
• Poise: Even in limited action, Angeli showed maturity—standing tall in the pocket under pressure and rarely making panic decisions.
Key Pieces
Head coach Fran Brown has assembled a roster built to compete right away. Angeli inherits talented backs in Yasin Willis and Will Nixon, both versatile weapons in the run and pass game. At receiver, Johntay Cook looks primed for a bigger role, while the offensive line—stacked with transfers and size (all over 300 pounds)—is expected to be one of the largest in the ACC.
Protection up front will be crucial, but with Angeli’s mechanics and football IQ, Syracuse should lean heavily on timing routes and play-action concepts to keep defenses off balance.
Potential Impact
In the short term, Angeli brings stability to Syracuse football. Being named the starting quarterback early allows him to build chemistry with his receivers and establish command of the huddle. That alone makes the Orange a more dangerous team in ACC play.
Looking long term, Angeli has the chance to elevate the Orange’s offensive ceiling while following the precedent McCord set in 2024. If Angeli develops into the quarterback this staff believes he can be, Syracuse won’t just improve for this season—the program will have a new blueprint for future quarterbacks. That lasting impact could be even greater than the immediate results.
Challenges and Key Questions
Can Angeli hit the ground running from week one, and how quickly will he develop timing and trust with his receivers? Just as important, the offensive line must come together in time to maximize his strengths. The answers to these questions will ultimately determine how far Syracuse can go in 2025.
Bottom Line
Angeli brings efficiency, leadership and a steady hand to Syracuse’s offense. He may not be the flashiest quarterback in the ACC, but he could be the most important. For too long, inconsistency under center has held the Orange back. If Angeli delivers on his potential, Syracuse won’t just look sharper—they’ll be an offense to fear across the conference.
