Sports SUmmary: Syracuse football dominates NC State and reaches No. 14 ranking

It was a big week for Syracuse football. With a sold-out crowd and two top 25 teams in the country facing off in the JMA Wireless Dome, the Orange could have let the pressure get to them. However, Syracuse convincingly beat No. 15  NC State 24-9 for their first 6-0 start since 1987. 

Sophomore wide receiver Oronde Gadsen II was a standout in this major win for the Orange. Tallying a career-high in receiving yards with 141, receptions with eight and tying his single-game career high with two touchdowns. Due to his strong week, Gadsden was named ACC Wide Receiver of the Week.

Star running back Sean Tucker also had a strong performance. He recorded 112 total scrimmage yards to go along with a 25-yard rushing touchdown to put the game out of reach for the Wolfpack. 

The defense had a stellar performance, limiting NC State to 5-16 on third downs and only allowing 3.7 yards per play. Offensive lineman Matthew Bergeron earned his second ACC Offensive Lineman of the Week honor this season. He allowed no pressures or sacks on quarterback Garrett Shrader. In addition, Bergeron recorded eight knockdown blocks in the game.

As a result of their dominant home performance, Syracuse is now ranked 14th, their highest ranking since November 2018. 

After defeating their first-ranked opponent, the Orange now go down south this week to face the undefeated, No. 5 Clemson Tigers Saturday at noon.