Syracuse football: QB Malachi Nelson expected to start at Virgina

Syracuse is set to begin their season against Virginia with a fresh face at the quarterback position. Malachi Nelson, a highly touted recruit, is expected to start in Saturday's game. ESPN's Pete Thamel was the first to confirm this on October 10, 2026. Nelson, who had previously played for UTEP, Boise State, and USC, is expected to become Syracuse's starter for the season.

The updated ACC injury report revealed that the team's original starter, Amari Odom, was listed as doubtful due to an injury. This left the team with a tough decision to make. Nelson has started six games for UTEP last season, throwing for 1,163 yards with eight touchdowns and nine interceptions. He also played in three games for Boise State and one for USC.

Despite his impressive college career, Nelson did not record any offensive numbers in Syracuse's season opener against New Hampshire. Syracuse fans were particularly excited for Odom, who had a stellar start in his first game as a starter, throwing for 335 yards and five touchdowns against UConn. However, Odom's availability remains uncertain as he was listed as doubtful.

Steve Angeli, the team's previous starter, has been struggling with injuries, throwing five interceptions in two losses this season. While Angeli led the nation in passing yards last season, his achilles injury forced him to end the 2025 campaign early. Syracuse still has options behind Nelson, including Georgetown transfer Danny Lauter, sophomores Joseph Filardi and Rich Belin, and true freshman Zaid Lott.

The Orange are still aiming for their first win of the 2026 season, with kickoff at Scott Stadium in Charlottesville against Virginia set for 7:30 pm ET.