By: Jim Williams
Capital Sports Network
As the 2025 college football season kicks off, the battle for regional supremacy in New York and New Jersey is heating up. With Syracuse surging under Fran Brown, Rutgers rebuilding under Greg Schiano, and Ivy League powers like Harvard and Princeton quietly stacking talent, the question looms: Which program will reign supreme in the Empire and Garden States this fall?
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Syracuse: The ACC’s Rising Power
Syracuse enters 2025 with momentum and swagger. After a 10–3 breakout season and a Holiday Bowl win, the Orange are no longer a middle-tier ACC squad—they’re a legitimate contender. Despite losing record-setting QB Kyle McCord to the NFL, the team reloaded with Notre Dame transfer Steve Angeli and LSU’s Rickie Collins battling for the starting job. The defense, led by All-American safety Duce Chestnut and DE David Reese, is expected to be more aggressive and disruptive.
With a schedule that includes Tennessee, Clemson, Notre Dame, and Miami, Syracuse faces one of the toughest slates in the nation. But if they can replicate last year’s magic, they’ll not only be the best team in New York—they’ll be one of the top programs in the ACC.
Rutgers: Grit Meets Gauntlet in the Big Ten
Rutgers is coming off back-to-back bowl appearances and boasts its most dynamic offense in years. Quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis returns with a deep receiving corps featuring Ian Strong, KJ Duff, and North Texas transfer DT Sheffield. The running game, led by Antwan Raymond and FAU transfer CJ Campbell Jr., gives the Scarlet Knights balance and explosiveness.
But the Big Ten schedule is unforgiving. Rutgers faces national title contenders like Ohio State, Oregon, and Penn State. The defense, rebuilt with transfers like Bradley Weaver and Cam Miller, must gel quickly to avoid being overwhelmed. If Rutgers can steal a win or two against ranked opponents, they’ll solidify their claim as New Jersey’s top team.
Ivy League: Harvard Leads the Academic Elite
Don’t sleep on the Ivy League. Harvard returns All-Ivy quarterback Jaden Craig, who posted 2,430 yards and 23 TDs with just three interceptions last season. The Crimson also feature one of the most experienced secondaries in the FCS, led by All-American safety Ty Bartrum and corner Damien Henderson.
With the Ivy League now eligible for the FCS playoffs, Harvard could make a deep postseason run. While they won’t face Power Four competition, their disciplined play and elite academics make them a formidable force in the Northeast.
Final Verdict: Syracuse Is the Team to Beat
In 2025, Syracuse stands atop the New York–New Jersey football hierarchy. With a high-powered offense, elite defensive talent, and a fearless schedule, the Orange are poised to dominate headlines and earn national respect. Rutgers has the tools to surprise, and Harvard could be the Ivy League’s playoff dark horse—but when it comes to big-time football, Syracuse is leading the charge.
