SYRACUSE, NY - In a highly emotional game, Syracuse football secured bowl eligibility with a thrilling 35-31 victory over Wake Forest on Saturday. The win not only guaranteed the team a 13th game this season but also marked the last home game for several key players in the program.

Prior to kickoff, Syracuse honored 17 players on Senior Day, including Marlowe Wax Jr., Justin Barron, Caleb Okechukwu, and Garrett Shrader. While Wax and Barron have another year of eligibility, Shrader, who transferred to Syracuse in 2021, completed his collegiate career during this season's finale.

For Shrader, Saturday's victory was the culmination of a journey he described as "the road less traveled." The quarterback initially played two seasons at Mississippi State before joining Syracuse as a transfer. Despite facing an apparent injury that affected his throwing ability in the last four games, Shrader displayed tremendous determination on the field, appearing in every game and making significant contributions as a runner, receiver, and even performing a backflip.

Adding to the challenges he faced this season, Shrader's "favorite coach he's ever played for" was unexpectedly fired just days before the game against Wake Forest. Despite the uncertainty and turmoil, Shrader showcased his resilience and led his team to victory.

Under interim head coach Nunzio Campanile, Syracuse devised a game plan that did not initially include Shrader, as he had not practiced much during the week due to his injury. However, just moments before the game, Shrader was cleared to throw, surprising his teammates and coaches. The quarterback seized the opportunity and delivered a spectacular final performance in the JMA Wireless Dome, completing 10 of 15 passes for 173 yards and three touchdowns, while also scoring a rushing touchdown.

Following the game, the emotional magnitude of the win was evident as Shrader fought back tears during his post-game podium speech. Still dressed in his full uniform and pads, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to make a lasting impact in his "last guaranteed game of football."

Despite uncertainty surrounding his participation in the upcoming bowl game, Shrader's performance against Wake Forest felt like a potential farewell. If it was indeed his final game for Syracuse, he leaves with a legacy of elevating the program and embodying the qualities of leadership, dedication, and perseverance associated with wearing the captain's "C" on his chest.

Syracuse's victory over Wake Forest goes beyond securing bowl eligibility; it highlights the indomitable spirit exhibited by players like Garrett Shrader, who defied odds and showcased unwavering determination to lead their team to victory.