Syracuse linebacker Keyshawn Johnson earns praise after week 1 win

Syracuse University opened its 2026 football season with a 66-3 victory over New Hampshire at the JMA Wireless Dome on September 5. While the offense secured the lopsided win, senior linebacker Keyshawn Johnson emerged as a key defensive contributor. Johnson recorded three solo tackles, 2.5 sacks, and one forced fumble during the contest. The performance drew attention from NFL draft analysts, including Connor Rogers, who noted the linebacker's production following a 13.5-sack season at UT-Martin. Johnson is an FCS All-American transfer who now serves as an integral part of the team's defensive scheme under Vince Kehres. Syracuse prepares to face the California Golden Bears on September 12 in the program's first Atlantic Coast Conference game of the year.

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