The Syracuse football team has been making waves in the college football landscape, garnering votes in both the Associated Press Top 25 and USA Today Coaches Poll. Despite not yet cracking the official rankings, the Orange have proven themselves as a force to be reckoned with, showcasing their potential to make a significant impact on the national stage.

Emerging as a Contender in the ACC

Gaining Momentum in the AP Poll

Syracuse (7-3) has been steadily climbing the ranks, earning the fourth-most votes among teams receiving votes in the latest Associated Press Top 25 poll. With 21 votes, the Orange are trailing only Washington State (No. 25), Missouri, Memphis, and Kansas State. This impressive showing places Syracuse as the fourth-highest ranked ACC team in the poll, behind No. 11 Miami, No. 13 SMU, and No. 17 Clemson.The Orange's strong performance in the AP poll is a testament to their ability to compete with some of the top programs in the country. Despite not yet breaking into the official rankings, the team's consistent play and impressive wins have caught the attention of voters, who recognize the potential for Syracuse to make a significant impact in the remainder of the season and beyond.

Earning Respect in the Coaches Poll

The Syracuse football team's success has also been recognized in the USA Today Coaches Poll, where they find themselves in a similar position. The Orange are once again the fourth-highest team receiving votes, finishing with 18 points. This places them behind Kansas State (No. 25), Washington State, Illinois, and Missouri in the list of teams knocking on the door of the official rankings.The coaches' recognition of Syracuse's performance is a clear indication of the respect the team has earned within the college football community. The Orange's ability to compete with some of the top programs in the nation has not gone unnoticed, and their continued success could lead to a well-deserved spot in the Coaches Poll in the near future.

Ending the Drought: Returning to the National Rankings

Syracuse's last appearance in the national rankings came in Week 10 of the 2022 season, when they were ranked No. 22. Prior to that, the Orange had not finished a season nationally ranked since 2018, a drought they are now poised to end.The team's recent performances have demonstrated their ability to compete at the highest level, and with the remaining games on their schedule, they have a prime opportunity to solidify their place in the national rankings. A strong finish to the season could not only secure a spot in the polls but also position the Orange as a force to be reckoned with in the ACC and beyond.

Embracing the Challenge Ahead

As Syracuse continues to receive votes in both the AP and Coaches Polls, the team must embrace the challenge that comes with being on the cusp of national recognition. The pressure to perform at a high level will only increase, but the Orange have shown the resilience and determination to rise to the occasion.The remaining games on the schedule will be crucial in determining the team's fate, and the players and coaching staff must remain focused and disciplined in their approach. With the support of their loyal fanbase and the growing respect of the college football community, Syracuse has the potential to make a lasting impact on the national landscape.