ACC Football Rivalries Intensify with SMU Faces Syracuse, Clemson Battles North Carolina Oct 4

The UConn Huskies are set to face the Florida International Panthers on October 4, 2025, with UConn boasting a strong offense ranked 25th in yards per game but a middling defense. Meanwhile, the Panthers have struggled offensively and defensively, ranking lower in total yards and points allowed per game. In ACC play, the SMU Mustangs look to rebound from a 2-2 start as they prepare to host Syracuse, who are coping with a season-ending injury to their starting quarterback and have struggled offensively and defensively recently. SMU's balanced offense, led by quarterback Kevin Jennings, aims to capitalize on Syracuse's vulnerabilities, especially in the running game and passing defense. Despite some early-season setbacks, SMU's coaching staff and veteran leadership remain optimistic about turning the season around, maintaining goals for conference success. The upcoming matchups highlight key battles in offensive production and defensive resilience within college football's competitive landscape.