Syracuse has seen significant defensive improvement since Tony White took over. The team currently ranks 15th nationally and leads the ACC in total defense, 15th nationally and second in the ACC in scoring defense, is tied for the fourth-most defensive touchdowns in the FBS, is sixth nationally in passing defense (leads ACC) and is 29th nationally in turnovers gained. He has also done so through key injuries to his unit. Team captain and All-ACC cornerback Garrett Williams, All-ACC linebacker Stefon Thompson and starting nose tackle Terry Lockett all suffered season-ending injuries early on.
