Syracuse quarterback Kyle McCord played his first game for the Orange over the weekend, leading them to a 38-22 victory over Ohio in front of more than 37,000 fans in the Dome. McCord completed 69% of his throws for 354 passing yards, four touchdowns, and one interception. SU’s offense didn’t look great at first, partly due to McCord’s inconsistency throwing the ball during the opening drive.
On that drive, McCord’s first two throws ended up in the hands of a Bobcat player, although both were ruled out of bounds or incomplete. McCord was fortunate not to have an early interception, especially on his very first throw for Syracuse.
The ‘Cuse fell behind 6-0 midway through the first quarter, but McCord responded on the second drive of the game. The Ohio State transfer completed four of five passes in that stretch, including a 28-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Oronde Gadsden towards the end of the opening frame.
The key question going into the season opener for SU’s offense was how long it would take McCord to settle into his new role. He answered that question by adjusting quickly, and finding his rhythm within a drive or so.
Many fans and analysts have discussed how McCord’ts transition from a Big Ten powerhouse like Ohio State to the ACC might be easier. However, adapting to a new environment is never simple.
McCord has been accustomed to playing in stadiums with capacities over 100,000, so competing in the JMA Wireless Dome, which holds 42,000, should be a manageable adjustment.
Additionally, as Adam Gotkin highlighted from his student experience this past weekend, the environment in the Dome can feel like a lot more fans are inside the stadium than the actual amount.
McCord’s first real test as Syracuse’s quarterback comes this weekend when SU takes on Georgia Tech at home for a noon kickoff. The Yellow Jackets defeated Florida State in Dublin, making college football’s first upset of the season.
