Syracuse, N.Y. — In an exciting matchup on Saturday, Kyle McCord showcased his talents by throwing for a remarkable 470 yards and two touchdowns, leading Syracuse to a 31-24 victory over UConn.

The win marked a significant achievement for the Orange, as they secured their first eight-win regular season since 2018, becoming only the third team since 2000 to reach this milestone. McCord’s performance was particularly impressive, completing 37 of 47 passes and achieving his first 400-yard game of the season. He started the game strong with a rapid 77-yard touchdown drive, which took just two plays and 50 seconds, capped off by a 22-yard touchdown pass to Oronde Gadsden.

During the first half, McCord made history by breaking Syracuse’s single-season passing yards record with just over four minutes left before halftime, needing 273 yards and three touchdowns to surpass the previous record held by Ryan Nassib.

On the other side, UConn, with a record of 7-4, concluded its season without securing a Power Four win, consistently keeping the score within ten points throughout the matchup. The Huskies have shown competitiveness in their Power Four games, finishing each within a single score of their opponents.

Running back Cam Edwards was a standout for UConn, racking up 87 rushing yards, which included an impressive 71-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. Quarterback Joe Fagnano contributed to the scoreline with 228 passing yards and two touchdowns of his own.

Defensively, UConn linebacker Jayden McDonald had a noteworthy performance, recording a total of 12 tackles, which ranked as the second-best on his team, including a sack. McDonald was part of the trio of Huskies players who managed to sack McCord.

For Syracuse, the offensive effort was highlighted by eight different receivers catching passes, with three of them surpassing the 100-yard mark. Darrell Gill Jr. led with 177 receiving yards, followed by Jackson Meeks with 110 yards, and tight end Oronde Gadsden contributing 103 yards and a touchdown. Overall, Syracuse amassed 540 total yards, while UConn managed 352.

Looking ahead, UConn will travel to face Massachusetts next Saturday, while Syracuse prepares to host No. 11 Miami on the same day.