2025 Camden (NJ) High quarterback Deante Ruffin was part of a large contingent of visitors on hand for Syracuse’s 22-20 win over Virginia, and said he enjoyed the ‘crazy’ atmosphere of the JMA Wireless Dome.
“The atmosphere was crazy there,” Ruffin said in an interview with The Juice Online. “Fans were really into the game, especially on third downs!”
The Orange led by 16 at halftime, but ended up losing the lead with 5:51 left in the fourth quarter. That led to a dramatic 11-play, 62-yard drive that culminated in what would be the game winning field goal with 1:14 to go.
“I enjoyed the game,” Ruffin said. “The game was very interested, especially in the second half.”
The win allowed Syracuse to move to 4-0 on the season, and they are now ranked (25) in the USA Today Coach’s Poll for the first time since 2018. But it was specifically how Syracuse won as a team that left the biggest impact on Ruffin.
“My impression of Syracuse is that it seems to be one big family, not one player that plays for themselves, and even the fans are a part of the family,” Ruffin said. “That team seems to be one big unit ready to win at all times.”
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As for Ruffin, he has already received offers from Temple and West Virginia, and has also drawn interest from Rutgers, in his early recruitment process.
It’s easy to see why. Aside from playing quarterback, Ruffin also plays defensive line and punts for Camden.
That kind of versatility will continue to draw interest from schools, including Syracuse.
“Cuse coaches told me they like my style of play,” Ruffin said, “and would love to have me back!”
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