The Battle of the ACC: Syracuse vs. NC State

In the ever-competitive Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), the rivalry between Syracuse University and North Carolina State University stands out as one of the most intense and storied. The two schools have faced off countless times over the years, battling it out on the gridiron, hardwood, and diamond.

Historical Head-to-Head

The series between Syracuse and NC State dates back to 1929, with the Orange holding a slight edge with 43 wins to the Wolfpack's 37. The rivalry reached its peak in the 1980s and 1990s, when both teams were national contenders in basketball.

Football

• Syracuse leads the all-time football series 15-9-2.
• The teams first met on the gridiron in 1956, with Syracuse winning 34-13.
• NC State snapped a seven-game losing streak to Syracuse in 2017 with a 31-20 victory.

Basketball

• Syracuse holds a dominant 28-14 advantage in the basketball series.
• The Orange have won 13 of the last 15 meetings, including a 77-55 victory in 2023.
• NC State's most recent win over Syracuse came in 2019, a 68-61 triumph at the Carrier Dome.

Notable Moments

Over the years, the Syracuse-NC State rivalry has produced countless memorable moments.

• 1989 NCAA Tournament: NC State upset No. 1-seeded Syracuse 79-75 in the Sweet 16, en route to the national championship.
• 2003 NCAA Tournament: Syracuse defeated NC State 76-69 in the second round, setting up an eventual Final Four appearance.
• 2016 Football Game: Syracuse rallied from a 21-point deficit to defeat NC State 38-35 in overtime.

Key Factors

Several key factors have contributed to the intensity of the Syracuse-NC State rivalry:

• Proximity: The two schools are located just over 200 miles apart, making it easy for fans to travel to games.
• Conference Competition: Both teams compete in the ACC, making every meeting a crucial conference battle.
• Historical Success: Syracuse and NC State have both been nationally successful in multiple sports, building a strong mutual respect.

Why It Matters

The Syracuse-NC State rivalry is a testament to the passion and excitement of college sports. It has:

• Generated Iconic Moments: The rivalry has produced unforgettable highlights that have become part of college sports lore.
• Created Unforgettable Rivalries: The players and coaches involved in the rivalry have developed strong and lasting bonds that transcend the competition.
• United Communities: The rivalry has brought together fans from across the country, creating a sense of community and shared experience.

Benefits

Beyond its emotional significance, the Syracuse-NC State rivalry has several practical benefits:

• Economic Impact: The rivalry generates millions of dollars in revenue for the local economy, thanks to ticket sales, merchandise sales, and travel.
• Athletic Development: The intense competition forces both teams to play their best, fostering athletic growth and development.
• Academic Partnerships: The rivalry has led to collaborations between the two universities in areas such as research and education.

FAQs

1. Who has the best overall record in the series? Syracuse leads 43-37.
2. Who won the last football game? Syracuse won 38-35 in overtime in 2016.
3. Who won the last basketball game? Syracuse won 77-55 in 2023.
4. How do I get tickets to a Syracuse-NC State game? Tickets can be purchased online, through the university box office, or from secondary ticket markets.
5. What is the average attendance at a Syracuse-NC State game? Over 30,000 fans typically attend Syracuse-NC State games.
6. What is the significance of the "Carrier Dome"? The Carrier Dome is Syracuse's on-campus football and basketball stadium, known for its unique domed design.

How to Step-by-Step Approach to the Rivalry

1. Learn the History: Familiarize yourself with the history of the rivalry, including key moments and legendary players.
2. Attend a Game: Experience the electric atmosphere of a Syracuse-NC State game firsthand.
3. Support Your Team: Cheer on your favorite team with enthusiasm and passion.
4. Respect the Rivalry: Recognize and appreciate the rivalry's long and storied history.
5. Have Fun: Enjoy the competition and camaraderie that comes with the Syracuse-NC State rivalry.

Conclusion

The Syracuse-NC State rivalry is a true college sports classic. From its thrilling moments to its lasting legacies, the rivalry continues to captivate fans and make its mark on the sports world. Whether you're an Orange or a Wolfpack supporter, embrace the intensity and enjoy the ride.