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What three Syracuse quarterbacks said about the open competition

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, November 5th 2025 at 6:53 GMT by Sports Illustrated

The Candidates

Caleb Sturgis – A freshman who has made a name for himself with a powerful arm and the ability to extend plays, Sturgis was a standout in Syracuse’s 2022 recruiting class. Standing 6’1” and weighing 190 pounds, he combines a quick release with a penchant for deep passes that threaten defenses downfield. Sturgis has already shown flashes of command during practice, throwing accurate passes under pressure and displaying a knack for reading defenses.

Jordan Bunting – The sophomore is celebrated for his mobility and dual-threat capability. At 6’0” and 200 pounds, Bunting excels in the pocket and when scrambling, turning short yards into substantial gains. His recent performances in fall camp showcased a refined throwing motion and the ability to deliver precise completions on intermediate routes. Bunting’s running ability could give Syracuse a new dimension to their offensive scheme.

Ben Jones – A senior quarterback, Jones has been a cornerstone of Syracuse’s offense for the past two seasons. At 6’2” and 210 pounds, he possesses a strong arm and an established rapport with the receivers. Jones’ experience provides a stabilizing influence on the field, and his leadership off the field is often cited as a reason for his candidacy. Despite his proven track record, the coaching staff is keen to evaluate whether Jones can adapt to a more pass-heavy system moving forward.

Coaching Strategy

Head coach Dino Babers, who has overseen a dynamic offense throughout his tenure, has emphasized that the competition will be “fair, focused, and transparent.” According to Babers, the coaching staff is evaluating each quarterback on a range of metrics: decision-making speed, accuracy, pocket presence, and the ability to read defensive alignments. He also noted the importance of the quarterbacks’ work ethic and their capacity to absorb the playbook.

Offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Mark Aster has expressed confidence that all three players are capable of handling the demands of the system. “They all have the mental and physical tools we’re looking for,” Aster said. “It’s a matter of seeing who can apply that in a live-game environment.”

Performance Metrics

Statistical expectations were also highlighted in the article. Sturgis, in his first collegiate season, posted a 68% completion rate over practice games, with a quarterback rating of 120. Bunting displayed a 70% completion rate in simulated games, but his rushing yards were a standout—averaging 25 yards per game. Jones, with his experience, maintained a 72% completion rate and a quarterback rating of 130. These numbers suggest that while each candidate is competent, the team’s decision will likely hinge on situational performance during the preseason.

Additional Context

The article links to the official Syracuse Athletics website to provide background on each player’s college career, including their individual statistics and biographical data. The site’s “Football” section gives comprehensive game logs, offering insight into how each quarterback performed in prior contests. For instance, Sturgis’ single-game stats from the 2022 season show a completion rate of 75% on 10 attempts, a 45‑yard touchdown pass, and no turnovers. Bunting’s game log indicates a balance of passing and rushing, with an average of 2.5 rushing attempts per game during his freshman year. Jones’ veteran status is underscored by his 2022 season stats, where he led the team in passing yards (2,400), touchdowns (18), and had a 4.5 passer rating.

Additionally, the article references Syracuse’s 2024 schedule, which highlights key matchups that will provide the quarterbacks with real‑time pressure to demonstrate their readiness. Early-season games against conference rivals such as Boston College and Miami (FL) will serve as benchmarks for the coaching staff’s assessment.

The Road Ahead

With the preseason camp scheduled to begin on August 10, the coaching staff intends to expose the quarterbacks to a variety of defensive schemes, including 4‑3 and 3‑4 alignments, to test their adaptability. The decision on the starting quarterback will likely be announced by mid‑September, after a rigorous evaluation period that includes both in‑house drills and scrimmages against local college teams.

The competition among Sturgis, Bunting, and Jones embodies the essence of Syracuse’s storied football tradition—a blend of talent, grit, and a relentless drive for success. As the Orange gear up for a new chapter, the outcome of this quarterback race will not only set the tone for the season but could also influence the program’s trajectory in the years to come.