Week 3 brings about more conference play than Weeks 0, 1, and 2. One of the biggest ones occurs in the ACC between the Syracuse Orange (1-1) and Pitt Panthers(2-0).
The Orange (1-1) started their season on a high note, defeating the New Hampshire 66-3. However, things fell apart against the Cal Golden Bears in a 21-8 loss. The Orange dominated early on, with a 12-0 lead, but Cal's superstar quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele threw two touchdowns.
In the third quarter, Ju'Juan Johnson ran in a touchdown to make it 18-14, but they missed a field goal on their first fourth-quarter drive to make it 21-14; then Kingston Lopa picked off Steve Angeli and returned it in the end zone for a touchdown. The Orange missed another field goal, and Angeli threw
another interception, his third one of the day, to lose.
The Pitt Panthers are 2-0, and they crushed Miami (OH) 59-14. However, they snuck out with a win against UCF. It was an ugly, rain-filled game that saw UCF quarterback Alonzo Barrett II suffer a hamstring injury that will take him out for multiple weeks. The Panthers had a grip on the time of possession, with 36:12 minutes of possession vs. the Knights' 23:48. However, the Panthers punted on every one of their drives in the second half.
If you are looking for some betting advice for the matchup, we've got you covered. Here are the latest odds for the game, courtesy of BetMGM.
Syracuse vs. Pitt game odds
All college football odds via BetMGM
- Over/Under: Over 51.5 (-110), Under 51.5 (-110)
- Spread: Pitt -10.5 (-105), Syracuse +10.5 (-115)
- Money Line: Pitt -420, Syracuse +320
Syracuse vs. Pitt prediction, pick:
This is a game with major implications for the dark-horse ACC race. People have discounted both of these teams from ACC championship contention, so both of them are in need of a win. The Orange lost to Cal earlier in the year, while the Panthers have a ton of tough road games in the future.
The Orange need the passing game to work. It did against New Hampshire, which isn't saying much, but it didn't against Cal. Angeli had a touchdown and three interceptions, but he threw for over 300 yards, and he can absolutely do that against Pitt, who's one of the worst pass defenses in the league.
However, it's never been about the pass defense for Pitt. They've always been great at blitzing and getting to the quarterback at Pitt, and they're going up against a Syracuse line that had 26 penalties in the first two games. Heintschel threw for seven touchdowns against Miami (OH), who competed in the Mid-American Conference championship. While he was definitely worse against UCF, he refrained from throwing an interception.
Heintschel had his worst game against Syracuse last season, where he threw for 140 yards, no touchdowns, and an interception. He'll need to get past that, and I believe he can. The defense should take care of the rest, even against Angeli. Pitt wins by double digits.
Score Prediction: Pitt 28, Syracuse 17
Best Bet: Pitt ML
Syracuse vs. Pitt channel, start time, streaming:
Date: Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
TV: ESPN
Live Stream: ESPN app, FuboTV
Watch Syracuse vs. Pitt on FuboTV (Free Trial)
Get more betting analysis and predictions at Sportsbook Wire.
Contact/Follow @College_Wire on X and @College_Wires on Threads. Like our page onFacebook to follow ongoing coverage of college sports news, notes, and opinions.
This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire: Syracuse vs. Pitt: Week 3 Betting Odds, Prediction
Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.
Advertiser disclosure: USA TODAY may earn a commission when you sign up through links on this page. Commissions never influence our editorial coverage or rankings. Offers and odds were accurate at publication and are subject to change; terms apply — see the operator’s site. This is general information, not betting, legal or financial advice. To the fullest extent permitted by law, USA TODAY is not liable for losses arising from your use of it.
Must be 21+ (18+ where permitted). Sports betting and casino gaming are not legal everywhere; complying with the laws where you are located is your responsibility. Gamble only with funds you can afford to lose. Gambling problem? Help is available 24/7 — call or text 1-800-GAMBLER, or call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET. State helplines and responsible gaming resources.
