NFL
By: Rick O’Donnell
After the worst loss of the season, the Syracuse Orange returns to the JMA Wireless Dome to take on the Virginia Tech Hokies. A home game against a Virginia Tech team that’s on a 3-game winning streak is the perfect opportunity to make a statement. Syracuse is in a position to close out the year strong but after losing 41-13, how they handle adversity will be on full display. What does Syracuse need to do to win this ACC matchup?
Defense Needs their “A Game”
Facing an in-conference opponent is never easy. Syracuse will need to be on their toes all game long. So far, in 8 games this season, the Hokies have scored less than 30 points in three games, yet still averaging 30.75 per game. Virginia Tech’s offense seems to go through the run game as lead-running back Bhayshul Tuten has 12 of the 19 rushing touchdowns, QB Kyron Drones has six, and the rest of the team just 1.
That’s not to say the Orange can rest in the passing game, however. Out of 11 receiving touchdowns, no receiver has more than two, and 5 WRs have one. The Hokies like to spread the ball out in their passing game. Syracuse will have to find ways to keep their head on a swivel and get after the QB to throw off the Hokies’ rhythm. Tuten was injured late in the game against Georgia Tech so the Hokies might not push him too hard. Syracuse has to be ready for anything.
Offense Gets A Boost
Syracuse should have their star Tight End ready to go against Virginia Tech. Quarterback Kyle McCord is coming off his worst game of the season with 5 interceptions, 3 pick-6s, and no touchdowns. He would, however, throw for 321 yards completing 35 of 64 attempts. Syracuse will have to find ways to balance out the lopsided game plan and control the pace of the game. This game will be a tentpole for the momentum going into the remainder of the season. If McCord can shake off that awful game, it will go a long way toward restoring confidence in the team for the rest of the season. If he has another off week, Syracuse fans will get that all-too-familiar feeling that the season might be over.
No matter how this game turns out, the Syracuse Orange have a lot to look forward to without letting two or three games derail their season. It’ll be on HC Fran Brown to keep their heads up and it in with the same energy and excitement they started the season with. Coaching when you’re winning is easy, not so much when you’re facing challenges. Can they make the adjustments to get their season back on track?
