Syracuse Football Holds Annual Spring Game

Orange fans get first look at new-look squad ahead of 2026 season

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:14am

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A cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and planes of orange and blue, conceptually representing the fragmented action and multiple perspectives of a college football game.Syracuse's annual spring game offers a first look at the team's new-look roster and coaching strategies ahead of the 2026 season.Syracuse Today

The Syracuse University football team held its annual spring game on Saturday night at the JMA Wireless Dome, giving fans a first glimpse of the Orange's roster and coaching changes ahead of the 2026 season.

Why it matters

The spring game is a key event for Syracuse football, allowing the coaching staff to evaluate player development and test out new schemes and strategies in a game-like setting. With several key departures from last year's squad, this year's spring game takes on added significance as the Orange look to rebuild and reload for the upcoming campaign.

The details

The Orange took the field for the intrasquad scrimmage in front of an enthusiastic crowd at the JMA Wireless Dome. Head coach Dino Babers and his staff used the exhibition to evaluate position battles, experiment with different personnel groupings, and get a feel for how the team has progressed since the end of the 2025 season.

  • The spring game took place on Saturday, April 12, 2026 at 7:30 PM.
  • Syracuse's 2026 season opener is scheduled for September 5th.

The players

Dino Babers

Head coach of the Syracuse University football team, entering his 11th season at the helm of the Orange program.

JMA Wireless Dome

The indoor stadium that serves as the home venue for Syracuse University's football team.

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What they’re saying

“This spring game gives us a great opportunity to see where our team is at and identify the areas we need to focus on as we get ready for the fall.”

— Dino Babers, Head Coach

What’s next

Syracuse will continue spring practice over the next few weeks, culminating in the team's annual media day on April 25th. The Orange open the 2026 regular season on September 5th against defending ACC champion Clemson.

The takeaway

Syracuse's annual spring game provides an early glimpse of the team's direction under coach Dino Babers. With several key departures from last year's squad, this year's exhibition takes on added importance as the Orange look to rebuild and reload for the upcoming season.