Former Half Hollow Hills West quarterback Joseph Filardi made his debut for Syracuse on Friday night, taking on North Carolina in a challenging matchup that featured the legendary coach Bill Belichick. The game was broadcast on ESPN, drawing significant attention as Filardi stepped into a starting role for the first time this season.
Despite a rocky performance, Filardi’s father, Gerald, expressed pride in his son’s journey to this point. “He’s super-excited for the opportunity,” he said, highlighting Joseph’s hard work and preparation, which he believed would lead to success despite natural pregame nerves.
In the game, which took place at Syracuse’s JMA Wireless Dome, Filardi struggled to find his rhythm against North Carolina’s tough defense. He completed only 4 of 18 passes for a mere 39 yards and rushed for eight yards on seven carries, as Syracuse fell to North Carolina with a final score of 27-10. The freshman quarterback faced overwhelming pressure, missing his first eight pass attempts and being sacked four times throughout the game. He was the sole quarterback to see action for Syracuse, even though the coaching staff had suggested earlier that multiple players might rotate in.
The Orange’s offensive performance mirrored Filardi’s difficulties, as they managed just 147 total yards with their only score coming from a 51-yard fumble recovery by Anwar Sparrow. With this defeat, Syracuse’s record falls to 3-6, including 1-5 in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), marking their fourth loss in a row after the season-ending injury of star quarterback Steve Angeli.
Filardi’s impressive high school credentials included winning the Hansen Award, recognizing him as the best football player in Suffolk County, and he set remarkable records during his time at Half Hollow Hills West. The 6-foot-1, 195-pound quarterback amassed 3,102 passing yards and 43 touchdowns in his final season, along with 1,204 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, leading the Colts to a successful 9-2 record.
Despite the challenges he faced in his debut, the skills and determination that propelled him to a standout high school career remain. Following his graduation from Hills West on January 10, he quickly transitioned to Syracuse, where he also plays for the men’s lacrosse team, showcasing his versatility as an athlete.
As he continues to adapt to the college level, Filardi’s determination and talent could pave the way for a bright future as he finds his footing in the competitive world of college football.