The Shadow
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (VR) – Virginia rallied from a 17-7 fourth-quarter deficit to defeat Syracuse, 28-25, at Scott Stadium, extending its home winning streak to five games.
The Cavaliers scored 21 unanswered points after trailing in the fourth quarter to secure their fourth win of the season and remain undefeated at home at 4-0. The victory also gave Virginia its first win over Syracuse since 2015 and a 4-3 lead in the all-time series.
Running back Jekail Middlebrook scored twice in the fourth quarter, tying his career high for rushing touchdowns in a game. It was his third career multi-touchdown rushing performance.
Virginia opened the game with an eight-play, 75-yard drive capped by a 14-yard touchdown run from Xay Davis. Davis’ score was his second career rushing touchdown and his first since the season opener against NC State.
After Syracuse built its lead, wide receiver Da’Shawn Martin gave the Cavaliers a spark with a 43-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Beau Pribula with 2:01 remaining in the third quarter. Martin’s fifth touchdown of the season leads the team.
Virginia’s defense recorded a season-high eight pass breakups. Jam Jackson led the Cavaliers with a career-high three pass breakups, while defensive tackle Anthony Britton tied for the game high with nine tackles. Jacobie Henderson added eight tackles to reach 150 for his career.
The Cavaliers overcame a difficult statistical night, as Syracuse outgained Virginia 430-288 and held the ball for 35:07 compared with Virginia’s 24:53. Virginia also benefited from Syracuse kicker Shay Barker making just one of three field-goal attempts.
Virginia improved to 5-1 in games following a loss since the beginning of the 2025 season and has won nine of its last 11 ACC regular-season games. The Cavaliers have also won six of their last seven Homecomings games, including three straight.
Kicker Will Bettridge added four extra points to bring his career total to 351, extending his school record for career points.
