Holy Cross vs Syracuse:The clash between Holy Cross and Syracuse is a captivating matchup in the world of college football, bringing together two schools with rich histories in athletics. While Syracuse is traditionally known for its dominance in higher-level football, Holy Cross has carved out its legacy as a fierce competitor, particularly in the Patriot League. This matchup is a fascinating example of college football’s ability to bring together schools of different sizes and conferences, creating a thrilling spectacle for fans.
In this article, we delve deep into the history of Holy Cross and Syracuse football, key moments from their matchups, player highlights, and what makes this rivalry a notable one in the annals of college sports.
A Brief History of Holy Cross Football
College of the Holy Cross, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, may not be the first school that comes to mind when thinking about powerhouse college football programs, but it has a proud and storied tradition. Founded in 1843, the Jesuit institution has been competing in college football since the late 19th century, with the team first taking the field in 1891. As a member of the Patriot League, Holy Cross plays in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), formerly known as Division I-AA.
The Holy Cross Crusaders have enjoyed several successful seasons, especially in the mid-20th century, and have produced notable alumni who went on to have professional careers in sports, politics, and business. While the program has faced ups and downs over the years, Holy Cross has maintained its reputation for producing competitive teams in the FCS, with a resurgence in recent years under the leadership of head coach Bob Chesney.
Key Achievements in Holy Cross Football History
- 1938 Orange Bowl Victory: Holy Cross enjoyed one of its greatest victories in the 1938 Orange Bowl, defeating Miami (FL) 26-6, a major accomplishment for the program.
- 1987 Undefeated Season: One of the high points in the Crusaders’ history came in 1987 when they finished with an undefeated record of 11-0, marking them as one of the best teams in the country at the FCS level.
- Patriot League Dominance: In recent years, Holy Cross has regained dominance in the Patriot League, winning multiple conference titles and making appearances in the FCS playoffs.
A Brief History of Syracuse Football
Syracuse University, located in Syracuse, New York, has a far more prominent history in the world of college football. The Syracuse Orange football program is a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and competes in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), the highest level of college football in the United States.
Founded in 1889, Syracuse football has a long-standing tradition of success, highlighted by national championships, legendary players, and historic games. The team’s most notable period came in the 1950s and 1960s, when Syracuse was a national powerhouse, culminating in their 1959 national championship victory.
Key Achievements in Syracuse Football History
- 1959 National Championship: The crowning achievement in Syracuse football history came in 1959 when the team went undefeated and claimed the national title. Led by Heisman Trophy winner Ernie Davis, the Orange capped off the season with a victory over Texas in the Cotton Bowl.
- Notable Players: Syracuse has produced a slew of NFL stars, including Jim Brown, Floyd Little, and Donovan McNabb. These legends helped solidify Syracuse’s place in college football history.
- Carrier Dome: Syracuse plays its home games in the iconic Carrier Dome, one of the largest domed stadiums on any college campus, known for its intense atmosphere and dedicated fanbase.
Holy Cross vs Syracuse: Key Matchups
Though Holy Cross and Syracuse may not meet regularly, their matchups have garnered attention when they do. In recent years, the schools have faced each other as part of non-conference schedules, with Syracuse usually considered the favorite given its status as an FBS program. Despite the difference in stature between the two schools, Holy Cross has demonstrated its resilience and competitive spirit in these matchups.
2019 Matchup: Syracuse 41, Holy Cross 3
One of the most recent matchups between Holy Cross and Syracuse took place in 2019, with Syracuse securing a convincing 41-3 victory at the Carrier Dome. Despite the lopsided scoreline, Holy Cross displayed moments of strong defensive play and kept the game competitive in the first half.
- Syracuse’s Offensive Power: The Orange, led by quarterback Tommy DeVito, overpowered the Crusaders with a balanced offensive attack. DeVito threw for 269 yards and three touchdowns, while the team racked up over 500 total yards.
- Holy Cross Defense: Despite the loss, Holy Cross’s defense had notable moments, particularly in the early going. The Crusaders managed to hold Syracuse to only 10 points in the first quarter, keeping the game within reach.
- Coaching Matchup: Syracuse’s head coach Dino Babers praised Holy Cross head coach Bob Chesney for his team’s preparation and determination, despite the uphill battle they faced against a higher-ranked opponent.
Player Highlights from the Rivalry
Both teams have showcased talent that stood out during their encounters. For Syracuse, some of the biggest names have continued to build their legacy in college football, while Holy Cross has produced players who leave their mark on the program.
Syracuse Stars
- Tommy DeVito: As the starting quarterback in the 2019 game, DeVito’s performance was key to Syracuse’s dominance. His poise and accuracy in the passing game set the tone early and helped Syracuse secure the victory.
- Andre Cisco: A standout safety for Syracuse, Andre Cisco contributed to Syracuse’s defensive stability, limiting Holy Cross’s offensive opportunities. Cisco, a future NFL player, was known for his ball-hawking skills and ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Holy Cross Leaders
- Jacob Dobbs: A defensive star for Holy Cross, Jacob Dobbs showcased his tackling ability and leadership on defense. In the 2019 game, he led the team in tackles, demonstrating his importance as a defensive anchor.
- Connor Degenhardt: Holy Cross’s quarterback Connor Degenhardt had the difficult task of facing a tough Syracuse defense. While he struggled at times, his perseverance and leadership were key in keeping the team organized and focused.
Why These Matchups Matter
Despite the difference in division and program stature, games between schools like Holy Cross and Syracuse hold significant value. For Holy Cross, playing against FBS opponents like Syracuse provides valuable experience and exposure for the program. It also gives the players an opportunity to test their skills against higher-level competition, which can be a huge benefit as they return to Patriot League play.
For Syracuse, facing a competitive FCS opponent like Holy Cross can serve as a tune-up for conference play. These games allow the coaching staff to evaluate the depth of the roster, experiment with different strategies, and build momentum before entering the more grueling ACC schedule.
Conclusion: A Tale of Two Programs
While Holy Cross and Syracuse come from different ends of the college football spectrum, their matchups offer a unique glimpse into the depth and diversity of college football in the United States. Syracuse represents the history and tradition of a major FBS program, while Holy Cross embodies the spirit and passion of a competitive FCS team with a proud legacy.
Whether it’s a lopsided affair or a surprisingly close contest, the clash between Holy Cross and Syracuse is a reminder of what makes college football special: the unpredictability, the history, and the sheer excitement of watching teams compete at all levels.