Key Takeaways from the Pitt vs Syracuse Record Scoring Game
- The 2016 Pittsburgh vs Syracuse matchup ended 76–61, totaling 137 points, the highest-scoring game in FBS history without overtime at the time.
- Pitt quarterback Nathan Peterman threw for 518 yards and 5 touchdowns, while running back James Conner scored 4 total touchdowns.
- Syracuse quarterback Eric Dungey accounted for 4 total touchdowns in a record-setting offensive performance.
- The teams combined for 1,318 total offensive yards and 16 touchdowns.
- The game reshaped national record books and remains one of the most iconic shootouts in college football history.
Inside the Historic 76–61 Shootout
On November 26, 2016, Pittsburgh and Syracuse delivered one of the most explosive offensive performances in college football history. Played at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse, New York, the game ended with Pitt defeating Syracuse 76–61 in regulation. The combined 137 points set an FBS record for the highest-scoring regulation game at the time and tied for the most combined points in any FBS game.
This Atlantic Coast Conference matchup was not expected to rewrite record books. Yet from the opening quarter, both teams traded touchdowns at a relentless pace, producing a statistical masterpiece that still stands as one of the most analyzed high-scoring games ever played.
Complete Game Stats and Box Score Breakdown
Final Score by Quarter
TeamQ1Q2Q3Q4FinalPittsburgh1414282076Syracuse141372761
Team Offensive Statistics
CategoryPittsburghSyracuseTotal Yards744574Passing Yards519350Rushing Yards225224First Downs3331Total Touchdowns118Turnovers01
Pitt’s 744 total yards rank among the highest single-game totals in program history. Combined, the 1,318 offensive yards demonstrated how both teams consistently broke through defensive schemes with big plays and rapid tempo.
Record-Setting Individual Performances
Nathan Peterman: A Career-Defining Game
Pittsburgh quarterback Nathan Peterman delivered a historic performance:
- 518 passing yards
- 5 passing touchdowns
- 0 interceptions
- 62.1% completion rate
Peterman’s 518 passing yards set a Pitt single-game record and firmly placed him in ACC record discussions. His ability to stretch Syracuse's secondary with vertical passing plays proved decisive.
James Conner: Red Zone Dominance
Future NFL running back James Conner added:
- 122 rushing yards
- 1 rushing touchdown
- 3 receiving touchdowns
Conner’s four total touchdowns highlighted his versatility. Whether on slant routes or power runs, he was nearly unstoppable in scoring territory.
Eric Dungey Keeps Syracuse in the Fight
Syracuse quarterback Eric Dungey delivered an elite performance despite the loss:
- 365 passing yards
- 2 passing touchdowns
- 105 rushing yards
- 2 rushing touchdowns
Dungey’s dual-threat ability consistently extended drives. His 100-plus rushing yards from the quarterback position underscored Syracuse’s high-tempo offensive identity under head coach Dino Babers.
How the Game Unfolded: Momentum Timeline
First Half: Evenly Matched Firepower
The first quarter ended tied 14–14, immediately signaling that defense would take a back seat. Both teams averaged more than 8 yards per play early, capitalizing on blown coverages and aggressive play-calling.
At halftime, Pitt held a slim 28–27 lead. Neither team had forced a turnover, and the game pace suggested records were within reach.
Third Quarter Explosion
The turning point came in the third quarter. Pittsburg scored 28 points in a single quarter, stretching the lead with rapid scoring drives. Peterman connected on multiple deep passes exceeding 40 yards, while Pitt’s offensive line dominated protection schemes.
Fourth Quarter Chaos
Syracuse mounted a furious comeback attempt, scoring 27 fourth-quarter points. However, Pitt responded with 20 of its own, sealing the historic 76–61 victory.
Historical Significance in FBS Record Books
The Pitt vs Syracuse 2016 game made an immediate impact nationally:
- Most combined points (137) in FBS history without overtime at the time.
- Tied for most total points in any FBS game.
- Highest-scoring game in ACC history.
- Most points allowed in a win by Pitt.
While other games have since challenged scoring records, this matchup remains the gold standard for regulation shootouts in the modern era.
Pitt vs Syracuse Rivalry Context
Pittsburgh and Syracuse share a long-standing rivalry dating back to 1916. Both original members of the Big East later transitioned to the ACC, continuing their competitive history.
The 2016 game stands as the most memorable meeting in the series. Historically, Pitt has maintained an edge in the overall series record, but no matchup has approached the statistical magnitude of this 76–61 clash.
Why Defense Struggled: Tactical Breakdown
Several factors contributed to the defensive collapse on both sides:
- High-tempo offensive systems minimizing defensive substitutions.
- Explosive passing plays exploiting man coverage schemes.
- Short time of possession drives increasing total play count.
- Limited pass rush pressure on both quarterbacks.
Syracuse’s up-tempo approach under Dino Babers forced Pitt’s defense into constant adjustments. Conversely, Pitt’s balanced attack prevented Syracuse from committing to either run containment or deep coverage.
Comparison to Other High-Scoring College Football Games
GameFinal ScoreTotal PointsOvertime?Pitt vs Syracuse (2016)76–61137NoTexas A&M vs LSU (2018)74–72146Yes (7OT)SMU vs Houston (1989)95–21116No
Unlike multi-overtime thrillers, Pitt vs Syracuse reached its staggering total strictly in four quarters, reinforcing its status as the most explosive regulation matchup in FBS history.
Season Impact for Both Programs
Pitt finished the 2016 season 8–5, including notable victories over Clemson and Penn State. The offensive showcase against Syracuse exemplified their potential when executing efficiently.
Syracuse finished 4–8 in 2016 but demonstrated significant offensive growth under Babers. The 61-point output against Pitt showed their capacity to compete with nationally ranked teams.
The game also elevated multiple NFL prospects, particularly Peterman and Conner, both of whom transitioned to professional careers following their standout collegiate performances.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 2016 Pitt vs Syracuse Record Game
Why is the 2016 Pitt vs Syracuse game considered historic?
You remember this game because Pitt and Syracuse combined for 137 points in regulation, with Pitt winning 76–61. At the time, it set the FBS record for the most points ever scored in a game without overtime and became the highest-scoring game in ACC history.
What were the most important stats from the game?
You see the impact in the numbers: the teams combined for 1,318 total yards, 16 touchdowns, and only one turnover. Pitt gained 744 yards and Syracuse had 574, showing how both offenses moved the ball almost at will for four quarters.
How did Nathan Peterman and James Conner perform for Pitt?
You see Nathan Peterman at his peak in this game, throwing for 518 yards, 5 touchdowns, and no interceptions. James Conner added 122 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown, and 3 receiving touchdowns, giving him 4 total scores and making him the key red zone threat for Pitt.
What did Eric Dungey do to keep Syracuse competitive?
You get a classic dual-threat performance from Eric Dungey. He threw for 365 yards and 2 touchdowns and ran for 105 yards and 2 more scores. His passing and rushing kept Syracuse close and helped them score 61 points despite the loss.
How did the scoring break down by quarter?
You see steady scoring early and a surge after halftime. The first quarter ended 14–14, and Pitt led 28–27 at halftime. Pitt then exploded for 28 points in the third quarter, while Syracuse added 7. In the fourth, Syracuse scored 27 and Pitt answered with 20 to finish the game 76–61.
How does this game compare to other high-scoring FBS games?
You can compare it to games like Texas A&M vs LSU in 2018, which reached 146 points but needed seven overtimes. Pitt vs Syracuse stands out because all 137 points came in regulation, making it one of the most explosive four-quarter games in FBS history.
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