NFL
By: Rick O’Donnell
The Syracuse Orange will close out its season this Saturday against the Boston College Eagles. Both programs have had a less-than-stellar performance this season and will look to close out the season with a win. In a pride game, the 1-10 Eagles and the 3-8 Orange have to show what’s left in the tank. How does Syracuse beat Boston College?
Hold The Line
After a few players have de-committed to Syracuse, the Orange have to show their grit going into this game to send the right message. Fran Brown has been bringing in the guys for the right reasons and filling his roster with good character. Can the Orange go out and prove that even when they’re down on their luck that they’ll continue to have each other’s backs? Strength is shown through adversity, and Syracuse is going through it this season. Everyone wants to perform under the big lights and make a name for themselves, and more often than not, this type of game will define plenty of character in the locker room.
Out With A Bang
If Syracuse wants to send a message, it’ll need guys to have their best games this week. They might not be able to top last year’s win over the Miami Hurricanes, but Fran and company need to send a message that this season was a fluke. If ever there was a game to say to fans, “Don’t go anywhere, we’ll be back!” this is that game. It doesn’t matter if they’re young guys looking to move up roster spots or playmakers looking to keep their name in the spotlight; this can be a defining game for plenty of players. Without risking injury, every single player needs to bring their best.
Attack and Finish
The only way to win games for Syracuse is to finish strong. Both regarding the season and each play on the field. Attack and finish. Attack the play with ferocity and finish strong. On offense, fight for every yard you can get, one inch at a time. On defense, follow through on tackles and stop opponents in their tracks. Every play can’t be a highlight reel, but every play is an opportunity to show what you’re made of. Either guys have checked out because their season is over, or guys are here for the long haul to prove to the program how much it means to them. Syracuse has a special place in college football, and most have forgotten that. Saturday at the Dome is an opportunity to remind them of that.
Yeah, this season hasn’t been pretty for the Syracuse Orange, but that’s okay. The only way to fail is to give up. With so many players buying in and committing to come back next season, there’s still a chance this program can be special. They just need to dig deep and put in the work. Will they find that extra gear at 3 pm to drive home a victory?
