No. 2 Syracuse hosts No. 1 Maryland in top lacrosse matchup

The two powerhouse programs meet in a rematch of last year's NCAA tournament semifinal

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Two of the nation's top men's lacrosse programs, No. 2 Syracuse and No. 1 Maryland, will face off on Friday in a highly anticipated matchup. Syracuse will be looking for revenge after Maryland ended its NCAA tournament run in the semifinals last spring, while the Terrapins aim to prove themselves after falling just short of the national championship last season.

Why it matters

This game features a clash of two elite lacrosse programs with national championship aspirations. The outcome could have major implications for seeding and momentum heading into the postseason.

The details

Syracuse enters the game riding the momentum of two solid wins over Boston University and Saint Joseph's. Maryland, meanwhile, is looking to bounce back after losing to Cornell in last year's national title game. Both teams boast talented rosters and will be eager to start the weekend with a ranked win.

  • The game will take place on Friday, February 13 at 6 p.m. ET.
  • Syracuse and Maryland will meet again on March 14 when the Terrapins host the Orange.

The players

Syracuse Orange

The No. 2 ranked men's lacrosse team in the country, looking to avenge their NCAA tournament loss to Maryland last season.

Maryland Terrapins

The top-ranked men's lacrosse team in the nation, seeking to prove themselves after falling just short of the national championship in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“We must be ready for a battle against one of the best teams in the country. Maryland is an extremely talented squad, but we're confident in our abilities and are looking forward to the challenge.”

— John Desko, Head Coach, Syracuse Orange (Syracuse Athletics)

“Last year's loss in the semifinals still stings, but we've used that as motivation all offseason. We're excited to have another shot at Syracuse and prove we're the top team in the nation.”

— John Tillman, Head Coach, Maryland Terrapins (Maryland Athletics)

What’s next

The winner of this matchup will likely move up in the national rankings and gain momentum heading into the rest of the season. The two teams are scheduled to meet again on March 14 when Maryland hosts Syracuse.

The takeaway

This game features an elite clash between two of the top men's lacrosse programs in the country. The outcome could have major implications for the rest of the season and the national championship picture.