The two-deep heading into Week 1 has been confirmed by the program this week.
Syracuse football officially kicks off its 2026 season on Saturday when the Orange host New Hampshire at the JMA Wireless Dome. Kickoff is set for noon ET.
Syracuse is coming off a 3-9 season in 2025, but there are expectations that the group will improve this season after the hiring of defensive coordinator Vince Kehres, the return of quarterback Steve Angeli, and some impactful transfer portal moves.
Orange fans received an early glimpse of what players could have an impact in Saturday's game when the team released its official depth chart on Monday.
And there were some surprises on both sides of the ball. Let's stick with the offense for now.
On offense...
For the past six months, the question as to who would be the primary ball carrier at the running back position has been unanswered. Even as recently as last week, running backs coach Dennis Thomas noted that the depth chart at the position was "not solidified"
The Orange lost projected starter Yasin Willis (Kansas) to the transfer portal.
And while the program added exciting players like Ahmad Miller (Jackson State) and Ju'Juan Johnson (LSU) via the portal, it's still unclear who the lead back will be with just one week to go until the season opener.
The depth chart did not feature either Miller or Johnson, with Syracuse instead listing Tylik Hill atop the list. He enters as the team's leading returning rusher from last season. Wide receiver Matthew Outten was listed as the second string running back.
Head Coach Fran Brown indicated Johnson will not play due to an injury, but he said Miller should play, despite not being listed.
The QB battle...
Angeli, back healthy after tearing his Achilles last season, is at the top of the chart, as expected. However, behind him there are questions that remain. While Amari Odom's name is listed ahead of Malachi Nelson's, it is not a clear "2 and 3" listing. It says "2 or 3."
Not everyone will care about the backup quarterback position, but after Syracuse had to play eight games with a backup a season ago, they should.
What does depth chart mean for Week 1 and the future?
In similar fashion to most FBS schools, the depth chart could will change week-to-week. While the depth chart is an important part of understanding what players could be key contributors week to week, the listing on the depth chart does not guarantee each player will lead their respective positions in total plays played or total touches.
What's next for SU?
With training camp over, the Orange have transitioned into game week preparations. There are no more open practices for the media, but we will have live on-site coverage on Saturday afternoon.
