Why it just got simpler for Tennessee football to play Syracuse in their 2025 opener
Now that Syracuse quarterback Kyle McCord is going to the NFL, Tennessee won’t have to start the 2025 season against the passing leader in college football.
McCord’s quest for an NCAA waiver for one extra season of eligibility came to an end on Friday when he announced his intention to enter the 2025 NFL Draft.
The 2025 season begins on August 30 in Atlanta with Tennessee’s Kickoff Classic matchup against Syracuse.
McCord would have been a nightmare for the Vols defense if he had come back.
McCord led the country in 2024 with 34 touchdown touchdowns and 4,779 yards of passing. Additionally, he shattered the ACC career passing record held by DeShaun Watson.
McCord played a key role in Syracuse’s 10-win season, which culminated in a Holiday Bowl triumph over Washington State.
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Which quarterback from Syracuse will Tennessee start against in 2025?
Who will start as quarterback for Syracuse versus the Vols? That’s unclear, and it might remain so for some time.
Jakhari Williams is one of the few rookie backup quarterbacks making a comeback. Rickie Collins, a former four-star prospect who transferred from LSU, was also selected by Syracuse through the portal in December. However, the Orange may replace McCord with another transfer during the spring portal window.
In either case, the Vols will benefit.
Some of Tennessee’s best pass rushers, including Joshua Josephs, are returning. Additionally, starting cornerback Rickey Gibson, SEC All-Freshman nickelback Boo Carter, All-America cornerback Jermod McCoy, and starting safety Andre Turrentine have returned to the secondary.
