I'd prefer going for it as well but in this case, they were at like their own 5 with 1:18. Odds of Syracuse scoring were probably better if Nova went for it. Interception, fumble, bad snap, blocked punt, a short punt that leaves the opposing team close enough for a field goal, a decent punt return putting the opposing team in field goal range etc.
I just think in this case, there's a better chance that Syracuse scores than Villanova going 65-95 yards with 1:18 on the clock. Not impossible but hanging in there on the road when you're a huge underdog, I'd hang tight and blast that ass in the second half.