Big East Game Recap: Northwestern 42, Syracuse 41

The Syracuse Orange staged a remarkable second-half comeback only to give up a game winning touchdown to the Northwestern Wildcats in the closing minute of the game. Syracuse then looked discombobulated in their attempt to drive the length of the field to attempt a game-winning field goal. The final score at the Carrier Dome was 42-41 (box score).

Quarterback Ryan Nassib led the Orange on four consecutive touchdown drives to rally from a 35-13 deficit to a 41-35 lead with just under three minutes remaining. Northwestern turned to Trevor Siemian to replace a sputtering Kain Colter, to lead the Wildcats’ final drive. Siemian tossed a fade to Demetrius Field in the end zone with 58 seconds left on the clock. Jeff Budzien’s PAT sealed the victory.

Nassib completed 45 of 66 passes for 479 yards and four touchdowns. He threw one interception. Prince-Tyson Gulley ran six times for 57 yards and a touchdown. Jerome Smith added 42 yards on 10 carries. Marcus Sales had an outstanding day with 125 yards and a touchdown. Jeremiah Kobena had 79 yards and two touchdowns. Christopher Clark caught the fourth Nassib touchdown toss and netted 26 total yards. New comer Ashton Broyld had four catches for 29 yards.

Next up for the Orange are the USC Trojans at MetLife Stadium Sept. 8.

SB Nation New York: Syracuse Football Vs. Northwestern: Big Plays Cost Orange Season-Opening Victory