Syracuse Football to Host SMU on Saturday
The Orange look to leverage their ground attack against the #19 ranked Mustangs at the Wireless Dome this Saturday.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Football
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Syracuse football returns to the field this Saturday, October 31, 2026, to face the #19 ranked SMU Mustangs at the Wireless Dome. The Orange enter the matchup with a 3-4 record, hoping to control the clock with their running game.
Why it matters
The game represents a crucial test for the Orange as they attempt to stabilize their season against a high-ranked conference opponent. Controlling possession through the ground game is central to their strategy for navigating this difficult matchup.
Ahmad Miller, who sports jersey #22, has recorded over 100 rushing yards in each of his last two games while maintaining a career average of over 5.3 yards per carry. He has contributed 5 total touchdowns so far this season with zero fumbles.
The players
Ahmad Miller
Ahmad Miller is a redshirt junior running back for Syracuse who previously played at Jackson State.
Syracuse Orange
The Syracuse Orange are the collegiate football team representing Syracuse University in the ACC.
SMU Mustangs
The SMU Mustangs are a ranked college football program that currently holds a #19 national ranking.
The details
Running back Ahmad Miller, a transfer from Jackson State, is expected to be a focal point of the offense after recording consecutive games with over 100 rushing yards. He utilizes a quick burst after the line of scrimmage and demonstrates a tendency to fall forward through contact to gain extra yardage.
Timeline
Saturday, October 31, 2026, at noon.
Season Trajectory
This game against a ranked opponent will significantly influence Syracuse's position within the conference standings as they move into the final stretch of the season. A victory could provide the momentum needed to improve the team's current 3-4 record heading into the next series of games.
Expect the offensive game plan to feature heavy usage of Ahmad Miller to shorten the game and keep the SMU offense off the field. Fantasy managers and observers should track Miller's carry count as he attempts to extend his streak of three-digit rushing performances to three consecutive games.
The takeaway
Establishing a consistent ground attack is vital for Syracuse to remain competitive against ranked opponents this season. Fans should monitor Miller's ability to maintain possession and gain yards after contact as a key indicator of the team's success.
Further reading
For more on the team's progress this year, visit Football.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 247Sports.
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