The Syracuse Orange football program represents Syracuse University in NCAA Division I FBS college football. Founded in 1889, the team boasts a rich history with a tradition of strong performances and notable alumni. The Orange compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), which they joined in 2013 after previously being a member of the Big East Conference.
Home games for the Syracuse Orange are played at the JMA Wireless Dome, a multi-purpose stadium located on the university’s campus in Syracuse, New York. The Dome, often referred to simply as "The Dome," has a seating capacity of approximately 49,057 for football games, making it one of the largest domed stadiums in the Northeast. Known for its loud and vibrant atmosphere, the venue provides a formidable home-field advantage for the Orange.
The program has a storied past, with several significant achievements and contributions to college football. Syracuse won the national championship in 1959, led by legendary head coach Ben Schwartzwalder and Heisman Trophy-winning running back Ernie Davis, who became the first African American to win the prestigious award. The team has also produced numerous NFL talents, including Jim Brown, regarded as one of the greatest running backs in football history, and more recently, Donovan McNabb, a standout quarterback in the late 1990s who went on to have a successful NFL career.
Syracuse football prides itself on a strong tradition of excellence, both on and off the field. The team’s colors are orange, blue, and white, and their mascot is Otto the Orange. Syracuse's fight song, "Down the Field," and the alma mater, "Song of Syracuse," are staples at every game, embodying the spirit and pride of the university community.
The Orange continue building on their legacy, striving for success in the highly competitive ACC. With a combination of historic pride and a forward-looking vision, the Syracuse Orange football program remains a significant and beloved part of college football.