Danny Lauter has made a notable entrance into the Syracuse football scene, bringing with him a legacy that's intertwined with the Orange's rich history. After transferring from Georgetown, Lauter has chosen to don No. 21 on his jersey, a tribute that carries significant weight.
Lauter's connection to Syracuse runs deep, as his grandfather was part of the 1959 national title team as a manager. Now, Lauter aims to honor another Syracuse legend, Lawrence Moten.
Moten, a powerhouse in the 1990s for Syracuse basketball, left an indelible mark on the program. His recent passing before the 2025-26 season adds emotional depth to Lauter's choice.
Moten's daughter, Lala, expressed heartfelt gratitude for Lauter's tribute, acknowledging the symbolic gesture as a way to keep her father's spirit alive on the field. Her words resonate with the emotional connection between past and present Syracuse athletes.
Lauter, a native of Connecticut, arrives with two years of eligibility left. His time at Georgetown saw him starting 10 games, where he averaged 187.1 passing yards per game and tallied 11 touchdowns. While not known for his rushing, his presence in the pocket is what Syracuse is banking on.
The competition for the starting quarterback position is fierce, with Lauter contending against Steve Angeli, Amari Odom, and Malachi Nelson. Head coach Fran Brown has opened the floor for a competitive battle, promising an intriguing preseason.
As for Lawrence Moten, his legacy at Syracuse is monumental. Playing from 1991 to 1995, Moten averaged an impressive 19.3 points per game over his career, becoming the program's all-time leading scorer with 2,334 points. His consistent performance helped Syracuse secure 20-win seasons throughout his tenure, including a Sweet 16 appearance.
Moten's No. 21 is forever etched in Syracuse history, retired in his honor. The basketball program wore a commemorative patch this season, a testament to his lasting impact.
As Lauter steps onto the field, he carries with him not just the hopes of a successful season, but the legacy of a Syracuse icon, bridging past triumphs with future aspirations.