SMU vs Syracuse head-to-head: position-by-position star ratings, experience, and composite grades on CFB Matchup. They meet Week 9, Saturday, October 31, 2026.
The Breakdown
#20 SMU's 67 composite tops Syracuse's 59, driven by a 4.2★ O-line and 4★ backfield.
When SMU has the ball: Kendrick Raphael's 4★ and a 4.2★ O-line versus Syracuse's 3★ linebackers and 3.3★ D-line.
When Syracuse has the ball: 2.7★ receivers face SMU's 3★ secondary; the 3.2★ Orange O-line and SMU's 3.3★ D-line wash.
Swing factor: SMU rebuilt its D-line with four first-year transfers; 5★ Dramodd Odoms anchors the O-line.
X-factor: Halloween Saturday in Syracuse — Week 9 road trip for #20 SMU, home crowd engaged.