Washington State’s Holiday Bowl opponent, Syracuse, will face a greatly diminished opponent on December 27, as the Cougars are losing 23 players, including 10 starters, ahead of the postseason game. Star quarterback John Mateer and top linebacker Taariq Al-Uqdah are among those who may not compete in the bowl.
The team has endured significant upheaval, with head coach Jake Dickert set to leave for Wake Forest next season. The loss of key players and coaches increases the risk of the Cougars pulling out of the game. However, athletic director Anne McCoy has assured that the team is committed to playing Syracuse in the bowl game.
Syracuse coach Fran Brown emphasizes his team’s focus on competition, saying “Best man gets to play.” The Orange will look to capitalize on the Cougars’ weakened roster, with Brown’s approach prioritizing competition over giving young players an opportunity to play.
The Holiday Bowl executive director, Mark Neville, has expressed confidence that Syracuse and Washington State will play, citing excited players and a lack of contingency plans. The combined payout for the two teams is $5.87 million, a significant incentive for both schools to participate.
Source: https://www.syracuse.com/orangefootball/2024/12/syracuses-diminished-bowl-opponent-endures-a-week-of-upheaval-we-are-not-pulling-out.html