(BCSNN) — Syracuse quarterback Steve Angeli will miss the remainder of the 2025 season after suffering a torn Achilles in Saturday’s 34–21 win over Clemson, multiple outlets confirmed Sunday. The injury occurred late in the third quarter on a non-contact scramble, abruptly ending what had been a breakout campaign for the junior transfer from Notre Dame.

Angeli had returned to the game earlier in the day after briefly exiting with a knee injury, but the Achilles tear came on a separate play as he attempted to evade pressure. He was helped off the field without putting weight on his right leg and later seen in a boot and on crutches. An MRI confirmed the severity of the injury, and Angeli is expected to apply for a medical redshirt, preserving two years of eligibility.

Before the injury, Angeli had emerged as one of the nation’s most productive quarterbacks, throwing for 1,316 yards and 10 touchdowns through four games—second nationally behind Baylor’s Sawyer Robertson. Against Clemson, he completed 18 of 31 passes for 244 yards and two scores, helping the Orange build a double-digit lead before exiting.

With Angeli sidelined, Syracuse will turn to LSU transfer Rickie Collins, who relieved Angeli in the second half and completed 3-of-8 passes for 34 yards and a touchdown. Collins, a redshirt sophomore, has limited collegiate experience but showed poise in closing out the win. Head coach Fran Brown expressed confidence in his team’s ability to rally: “Steve will always be the leader of our football team. We’ve just got to support and rally around him”.

The Orange (3–1, 1–0 ACC) face a challenging stretch ahead, with upcoming games against Duke, SMU, Ptt, Georgia Tech, Miami, and Notre Dame. Angeli’s absence will test Syracuse’s depth and offensive identity, which had been built around his mobility and downfield accuracy.

While the loss of Angeli is a major setback, Syracuse remains in contention for a spot in the ACC Championship and a potential bowl berth. Collins will have little time to ease into the role, but the Orange defense and run game may help stabilize the transition as the team regroups for the second half of the season.