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Syracuse football needs more playmakers in the passing game

The California Golden Bears overcame an early 12-0 deficit at the JMA Wireless Dome to defeat Syracuse 21-18 in the ACC opener for both programs. Cal quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele delivered two touchdown passes, while safety Kingston Lopa anchored the defensive effort by intercepting three passes.

Lopa's middle interception proved decisive, as he ran it back 24 yards for a score with 4:51 remaining in the final quarter to seal the victory and hand head coach Tosh Lupoi his first career win.

Syracuse suffered from self-inflicted wounds, including multiple flags, a stagnant ground game following a Tylik Hill injury, and three total interceptions thrown by quarterback Steve Angeli. Despite offensive contributions from Ju'Juan Johnson and Darius Johnson, the Orange failed to hold their home advantage, marking their initial defeat of the season.