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Syracuse Freshman QB Filardi Takes the Helm Against UNC

11/1/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Syracuse will start true freshman Joseph Filardi at quarterback against North Carolina on Friday night.
Filardi is a walk-on for football and a lacrosse scholarship athlete from Half Hollow Hills West High School.
He threw for 3,115 yards and 43 touchdowns in his senior year.
Filardi replaces Rickie Collins after four straight losses.
The game will be broadcast on ESPN.

History

Historical Context

In 1984, the NCAA's "Freshman Eligibility Rule" allowed first-year students to compete in college sports, significantly increasing participation. Over 1,000 freshmen played football that season, reflecting a shift in college athletics. Joseph Filardi's promotion to starting quarterback for Syracuse highlights this trend, as young athletes increasingly take on crucial roles, reshaping team dynamics and performance in college football.

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Story summary

Syracuse will start true freshman Joseph Filardi at quarterback against North Carolina on Friday night.
Filardi is a walk-on for football and a lacrosse scholarship athlete from Half Hollow Hills West High School.
He threw for 3,115 yards and 43 touchdowns in his senior year.
Filardi replaces Rickie Collins after four straight losses.
The game will be broadcast on ESPN.

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