As the college football transfer portal prepares to swing open later this week, the University of Connecticut finds itself at the center of one of the more intriguing storylines to watch-not just because of the usual roster reshuffling, but due to a unique coaching crossover that could ignite a quiet tug-of-war with Syracuse.
Let’s set the stage.
A New Era in Storrs, and a Portal Wildcard
The transfer portal has become college football’s version of free agency-a whirlwind stretch where rosters can be rebuilt or gutted in a matter of weeks. And for UConn, the stakes feel even higher this time around.
Former head coach Jim Mora’s departure to Colorado State has already caused a ripple effect. Some players may follow him west, and a few recruits have already backed off their commitments. That’s the reality of today’s game-coaching changes don’t just shift schemes, they shift loyalty.
But UConn isn’t exactly starting from scratch. New head coach Jason Candle arrives with a strong track record and deep recruiting ties, especially to the Midwest. And that’s where things get interesting.
The Toledo Connection: More Than Just a Footnote
Candle spent the last ten years building Toledo into a consistent MAC power. When a program like that experiences coaching turnover, it's almost inevitable that players start looking at their options.
Bigger programs offer more exposure, stronger NIL opportunities, and a clearer path to the NFL. That’s just the nature of the sport now.
So yes, it makes sense to assume that Candle might look to bring some of his former Rockets with him to Storrs. He knows their skill sets, their personalities, and how they fit into his system. But here’s the twist-he’s not the only one with Toledo ties in this transfer window.
Syracuse Enters the Chat
Syracuse, of all programs, could be UConn’s biggest rival in this particular portal cycle. Why?
Because Candle’s former defensive coordinator at Toledo, Vince Kehres, is now running the defense at Syracuse. And he’s not alone-former Toledo defensive backs coach Perry Eliano is also on the Orange staff.
That means multiple coaches with deep familiarity and relationships with Toledo players are now scattered across two northeastern programs. While Candle has the head coach title and the clearest pipeline, Kehres and Eliano could absolutely influence where some of those former Rockets land.
It’s not just a matter of who has the better pitch-it’s about trust, loyalty, and opportunity. And the battle lines are quietly being drawn.
What UConn Has to Offer
On paper, Syracuse might have the edge. The Orange play in the ACC, which means a stronger schedule, more national exposure, and a clearer (though still difficult) path to the College Football Playoff. NIL backing is also expected to be stronger in Central New York.
But UConn has a few cards to play of its own.
First, there’s Candle. He’s not just a familiar face-he’s the coach who recruited many of these Toledo players in the first place.
That matters. Kehres and Eliano may have strong relationships, but they’re not head coaches.
And they’re not the ones who sat in living rooms and made the original pitch. That kind of connection can carry real weight.
Second, there’s the on-field product. While Syracuse struggled to a 3-9 finish in 2025, UConn quietly posted a 9-4 season.
No, the Huskies aren’t in a Power Five conference, but they’re winning. And for a player looking to make an impact and showcase themselves for the next level, that’s not nothing.
Don’t Forget the Nunzio Factor
There’s also a bit of irony in the coaching carousel. UConn just hired Nunzio Campanile away from Syracuse to be its new offensive coordinator.
Campanile was the quarterbacks coach for the Orange, and his move could open the door for a few Syracuse players to consider a change of scenery. It’s another wrinkle in what’s already shaping up to be a layered, competitive portal season.
Bottom Line
The transfer portal is always unpredictable, but this UConn-Syracuse dynamic adds a layer of intrigue that goes beyond the usual chaos. It’s not just about who can offer the most money or the biggest stage-it’s about relationships, timing, and trust.
Jason Candle has a chance to reshape UConn quickly, and his past at Toledo gives him a unique edge. But with familiar faces now embedded at Syracuse, don’t be surprised if the Orange make a few moves of their own.
One thing’s for sure: the portal is open, and the recruiting battles aren’t just heating up-they’re getting personal.