Syracuse got off to a nightmare start against Rhode Island in the team’s season opener. Quarterback Terrel Hunt threw an interception on the first play of the game and then injured his Achilles tendon scrambling out of the pocket just minutes later. He did not return and after the game Scott Shafer called the injury, “very serious.”
After the injury the Orange settled down and went on to beat Rhode Island 47-0. Freshman quarterback Eric Dungey took over for Hunt and played well completing ten of 17 passes for 114 yards and two touchdowns.
Yes this was against Rhode Island, a team that won just a single game last season and did not advance the ball past the 50 Friday night, but Dungey looked calm and collected in his first ever college football game.
The Oregon product threw a touchdown screen pass across his body to Erv Phillips midway through the first quarter, which set the tone for his debut. The whole night Dungey seemed relaxed, even when rushing the ball. Many inexperienced QB’s take big hits when running the ball; Dungey routinely slid to end his rushing plays so he could avoid being tackled. He was making heads up plays the whole game.
Next week Syracuse goes up against Wake Forest. If Dungey is able to pick up where he left off against Rhode Island that will be a major statement. The team is in the freshman’s hands now. It’s been so far so good for Dungey. His performance against Wake will provide more insight in to what we can realistically expect from Syracuse this season.
Follow us @OrangeFizz to stay up-to-date on SU sports news.
Posted: Connor Morrissette
