2028 quarterback Zymere Weaver got his first real taste of Syracuse on a game day this past weekend, and the Orange made a strong impression while knocking off No. 19 SMU, 30-27, at the JMA Wireless Dome.
Weaver had been on campus before, including for spring practice in March, but this trip gave him something different: a chance to see the place packed and buzzing during a live game. Syracuse’s win was its first over a ranked opponent since 2024, and Weaver came away with plenty to like.
“The visit was great,” Weaver said to The Juice Online. "I can see myself playing there one day for sure.
Great win, much needed. The atmosphere was great seeing all the fans out supporting.”
What stood out most to him was the way Syracuse handled the game. The Orange forced two turnovers and protected the ball throughout the day, and Weaver said that showed up in the way they played.
"I feel like Cuse played with discipline, toughness and violence,” Weaver said. “My favorite part of the trip was just there watching the two teams go at each other. I love watching football and the game today against SMU was a great one to watch."
He also came away impressed with quarterback Steve Angeli, who went 21 of 34 for 200 yards and a touchdown while adding another score on the ground.
"I think Angeli played well,” Weaver said. “Poised in the pocket, delivering on time.
He had a great rushing touchdown to set the tone. You gotta love it.
I’ll definitely say he’s one of the better QBs in country, so keep watching.”
Weaver also spent time with Syracuse coaches Fran Brown, Sean Ryan and Mike Gillespie. He said the conversations were good, even if the visit was more game-focused than talk-heavy.
“All great guys,” Weaver said. “Good speaking to them again.
They asked me how the season was going, and talked a little bit about my midseason film. This visit was a little different less time to really talk to the coaches because they were locked in on the main goal, but you understand why.”
The Edison (NJ) St. Thomas Aquinas quarterback has helped his team to a 6-3 record heading into the playoffs, and he says he’s embracing the role of a leader with an edge.
“The type of QB I am is a playmaker,” Weaver said. “You need a good pass, I can do it you.
Need a good run, I can do it. You need a heads up play, I can do it.
Overall just a smart football player that you can rely at anytime to make the play.”
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