Syracuse Defeats Washington State in a Thrilling DIRECTV Bowl Showdown
Photo Creid: Chris Harris
San Diego, CA - In an electrifying game under the bright lights of the DIRECTV Bowl, Syracuse emerged victorious over Washington State in a high-stakes clash that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The Orange capitalized on their defense and dynamic playmaking to claim a 34-27 win, marking a triumphant end to their season.
First Half: Back-and-Forth Battle
The first quarter set the tone for a competitive matchup as both teams traded blows. Washington State’s high-powered air raid offense, led by quarterback Jake Harrison, opened the scoring with a 42-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Malik Franklin. Syracuse responded with a balanced offensive attack, highlighted by a 25-yard touchdown run from running back Jaylen Carter.
The second quarter saw Syracuse’s defense shine, intercepting Harrison twice to stymie the Cougars’ momentum. Meanwhile, Syracuse quarterback Ryan Mitchell connected with wide receiver Elijah Barnes for a 17-yard touchdown, giving the Orange a 17-10 lead heading into halftime.
Second Half: Syracuse Pulls Ahead
The Cougars came out strong in the third quarter, with Harrison orchestrating a 75-yard drive that culminated in a short touchdown pass to tight end Connor Steele, tying the game at 17. However, Syracuse struck back immediately. A 98-yard kickoff return by freshman sensation Marcus Hayes electrified the crowd and swung the momentum back to the Orange.
Syracuse extended their lead early in the fourth quarter with a clutch 38-yard field goal by kicker Evan Martinez, followed by a 12-yard rushing touchdown from Carter, his second of the night. Washington State narrowed the gap with a late touchdown, but Syracuse’s defense held firm, forcing a turnover on downs in the final minute to seal the win.
Key Performances
• Ryan Mitchell (Syracuse): 235 passing yards, 1 touchdown
• Jaylen Carter (Syracuse): 142 rushing yards, 2 touchdowns
• Jake Harrison (Washington State): 312 passing yards, 3 touchdowns, 2 interceptions
• Malik Franklin (Washington State): 9 receptions, 128 yards, 1 touchdown
Post-Game Reactions
“This team showed resilience all season, and tonight was no different,” said Syracuse head coach Mark Anderson. “We knew Washington State would be a tough opponent, but our guys rose to the occasion.”
Cougars head coach Brian Roberts praised his team’s effort despite the loss. “We played our hearts out, but Syracuse made the plays when it mattered most. Hats off to them.”
Looking Ahead
The victory caps a successful season for Syracuse, finishing with a 10-3 record and earning their first bowl win since 2018. Washington State, meanwhile, ends the season at 8-5, with hopes of building on their progress next year.
For fans of college football, the DIRECTV Bowl delivered everything they could hope for: drama, big plays, and a game to remember.
Photo credit: Chris Harris