October is here. Syracuse football is trying to rebound this weekend on the road against SMU, Syracuse basketball begins preseason games in a few weeks, and Syracuse lacrosse continues its “Fall Ball” work with practices and scrimmages upcoming this month. While there is already anticipation for the 2026 season as a star-studded senior class makes their Orange finale and the 5th nationally ranked incoming freshman class makes their dome debut, lacrosse news site Inside Lacrosse released their “Way Too Early” fall ball power rankings. SU ranked third, falling behind 2025 runner up Maryland and the tournament qualifying Princeton Tigers.
What should give fans faith?
Look no further than the dominant players who make up Syracuse’s senior class: Joey Spallina, Jimmy McCool, Billy Dwan, Finn Thompson, Riley Figueras, Michael Leo, and more. Many of these names, due to the combination of their own talent and Syracuse’s success in 2025, were named to All-American and All-ACC spots as juniors. After making the Final Four weekend last May, they have the “Tournament Experience” which aids a team in so many facets of the game once April rolls around.
What should make fans worry?
The Orange’s three biggest losses from 2025–Owen Hiltz, Jake Stevens, and Carter Rice–have played exceptional in the professional ranks (PLL). These three players, among the other graduated members from the ‘25 squad, will create holes in the lineup that younger players will have to step up and fill. SU does have veteran players at attack, midfield, and defense, but replacing any of those three’s production and value doesn’t happen overnight.
“Lapses” in play
The IL writers described the sometimes hectic play in 2025 that kept Orange fans on the edge of their seat (Or with their hands squarely covering their eyes in feat). The passing and communication would seemingly disappear for a quarter or two, and then magically come back together for a big run. SU cannot let momentum dictate the flow of the game; they must seize the momentum and not allow errors to mount. While Maryland was a fantastic team who already beat the ‘Cuse earlier in the season, turnovers were a leading causing of the deficit in the Final Four matchup.
Fall ball power rankings don’t carry much weight.. However, it is encouraging to see SU be placed by analysts among the best entering the season. As the expectations rise, so does the hype.
