Wake Forest vs. Syracuse Short Report | Nov 25, 2023
JMA Wireless Dome
Syracuse, NY
Nov 25, 2023
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Game Recap
The Syracuse Orange emerged victorious against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons, winning 35-31 in a nail-biting Week 13 match at the JMA Wireless Dome. Both teams traded blows throughout the game, with quarterbacks Garrett Shrader and Michael Kern each throwing three touchdowns. Shrader's dual-threat capability was on full display as he also rushed for a touchdown.
The defensive play of the game was anchored by Kevon Darton, who recorded two pivotal sacks, and Jason Simmons Jr., who clinched the victory with a critical interception. Despite Wake Forest’s late comeback efforts, Syracuse's defense held firm, clinching the game's outcome. This victory not only capped off Syracuse’s regular season with flair but also ensured their bowl eligibility.
Key Plays:
Damien Alford (Syracuse Orange)
Shrader connected with Alford on a 35-yard touchdown pass, showcasing early offensive prowess and establishing a tone for Syracuse’s aggressive play.
Wesley Grimes (Wake Forest Demon Deacons)
Kern found Grimes in the end zone for a 16-yard touchdown, quickly equalizing the score and demonstrating Wake Forest’s resolve.
Garrett Shrader (Syracuse Orange)
Shrader’s 1-yard touchdown run extended Syracuse's lead to 14-7, capitalizing on a balanced offensive attack.
Damien Alford (Syracuse Orange)
Garrett Shrader connected with Alford for a 47-yard touchdown, one of the game’s longest plays, pushing the lead to 21-10 and displaying their deep threat capability.
Justice Ellison (Wake Forest Demon Deacons)
Ellison’s 2-yard touchdown run cut the deficit to 21-17, keeping Wake Forest in striking distance.
Dan Villari (Syracuse Orange)
The 13-yard touchdown pass from Shrader to Villari extended the lead to 28-17, crucially increasing Syracuse's cushion in the final quarter.
Umari Hatcher (Syracuse Orange)
Hatcher’s 37-yard touchdown reception was key in solidifying Syracuse’s 35-25 lead, highlighting Shrader’s accuracy in clutch situations.
Wesley Grimes (Wake Forest Demon Deacons)
Grimes' 9-yard touchdown reception brought Wake Forest within four points, intensifying the game’s closing moments.
Kevon Darton (Syracuse Orange)
Kern was sacked by Darton for no gain, halting Wake Forest's momentum and maintaining Syracuse’s defensive control.
Jason Simmons Jr. (Syracuse Orange)
Simmons Jr.’s interception at the 1-yard line sealed the game, thwarting Wake Forest’s final scoring opportunity and securing the win.
Standout Players:
Garrett Shrader (Syracuse Orange, QB)
Demonstrated his dual-threat capabilities by throwing for 173 yards and 3 touchdowns while also rushing for 46 yards and a touchdown, leading the Orange offense with poise.
Michael Kern (Wake Forest Demon Deacons, QB)
Displayed exceptional accuracy and composure by passing for 261 yards and 3 touchdowns, completing 17 out of 24 attempts, spearheading Wake Forest’s aerial attack.
Damien Alford (Syracuse Orange, WR)
A pivotal target for Shrader, catching 4 passes for 126 yards and 2 touchdowns, including a game-changing 47-yard TD.
Wesley Grimes (Wake Forest Demon Deacons, WR)
Was a reliable red-zone target for Kern, scoring 2 touchdowns on 3 receptions, and providing crucial points for Wake Forest.
Kevon Darton (Syracuse Orange, DL)
Had 2 sacks, including a decisive sack late in the fourth quarter that disrupted Wake Forest’s final offensive push.
Justice Ellison (Wake Forest Demon Deacons, RB)
Rushed 11 times for 38 yards and scored a crucial 2-yard touchdown, keeping Wake Forest in contention.
References:
Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs. Syracuse Orange - Final Score - November 25, 2023 | FOX Sports
Syracuse holds on to beat Wake Forest in nail-biter, making the Orange bowl eligible (final score, recap) - syracuse.com
Wake Forest University
Syracuse football rides return of Garrett Shrader to victory over Wake Forest (Axe’s quick takes) - syracuse.com
Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs. Syracuse Orange Live Score and Stats - November 25, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Wake Forest Demon Deacons
7
3
7
14
31
Syracuse Orange
7
7
7
14
35
