Tommy DeVito’s return to Syracuse wasn’t just another alumni visit. The Giants quarterback returned to Central New York last weekend for the Pizza and Pasta Festival, and what he saw got him talking about how much his old program has changed under Fran Brown.
DeVito shared his thoughts on Syracuse football’s recent success under Brown, including his personal connection to current players. His comments showed genuine excitement about the program’s direction and the energy surrounding Orange football.
What Did Tommy DeVito See That Got Him So Excited About Syracuse?
A social media post from Ashley Wenskoski captured DeVito’s comments about Syracuse under Brown. The quarterback talked about working out with Kyle McCord as kids and witnessing Syracuse’s turnaround, showing how personal relationships have helped fuel the program’s recent success under Brown’s leadership.
“Seeing it last year was awesome to see that happen, obviously. Kyle McCord, now I mean me and him worked out together, and we were like this big, you know, it would happen from time to time,” DeVito said during his festival appearance.
He continued, “So to see him flourish and see the program and the fan base all come together, everything was really coming to fruition as it has been building up from years and years, so it’s finally starting to get a little bit of fruit from that labor.”
Former SU/current Giants QB Tommy DeVito says he used to workout with Kyle McCord when they were kids in New Jersey.
He’s enjoyed watching the new atmosphere around Syracuse football since Fran Brown took over: pic.twitter.com/6n1sl6STzY
— Ashley Wenskoski (@AshleyWenskTV) July 12, 2025
DeVito’s observations match many people’s thoughts about Brown’s work at Syracuse. Under Brown’s leadership, Syracuse achieved a historic 10-3 season in 2024, marking the program’s first 10-win campaign since 2018. The transformation included leading the nation in passing offense yards by Quarterback Kyle McCord and securing a Holiday Bowl victory.
However, DeVito talked about more than wins and losses. He noticed how the changes at Syracuse have excited the whole community about football again.
“Still more to do, but I hear the facilities are great. I haven’t had a chance to check them out yet, but everything around here, everybody’s upbeat, so that’s what keeps the team going, you know, there’s upbeat fans, all that. So to have them pour into the team and see them respond to get some wins, it all goes together,” DeVito said.
Can Syracuse Maintain This Momentum Under Brown’s Leadership?
Brown’s recruiting success has given Syracuse a real chance to compete in the ACC for years to come. His 2024 recruiting class ranked 37th nationally, the highest-rated group Syracuse has landed in the modern recruiting era. The coach has prioritized Northeast recruiting while expanding the program’s reach across the country.
But the 2025 season brings serious challenges, with a tough schedule that opens against Tennessee in Atlanta. Many experts expect fewer wins this year as they lost key contributors like McCord, Oronde Gadsden II, and LeQuint Allen Jr., combined with the tough schedule.
Still, Brown’s proven ability to develop talent suggests this success can continue beyond one season.
When a former quarterback who lived through Syracuse’s struggles comes back and sees this transformation, it means something. DeVito’s endorsement isn’t just alumni loyalty. It’s recognition that Brown has built something real in the Dome.
