Syracuse Football Faces Key Player Absences Against Colgate

What's Happening?

Syracuse University's football team is set to face Colgate without two of its key players, running back Yasin Willis and safety Devin Grant. Head Coach Fran Brown announced that both players are unlikely to participate in the upcoming game due to injuries. Willis, who was recently praised as the team's best offensive player, had a standout performance in the season opener against Tennessee, rushing for 91 yards and scoring three touchdowns. Despite not starting against UConn, Willis contributed significantly with 48 rushing yards and a touchdown. Grant's absence adds to the team's challenges, as he is a crucial part of the defense. The team is also dealing with the injury of starting left tackle Trevion Mack, who played well in the opener but was seen using a scooter during the UConn game.

Why It's Important?

The absence of Yasin Willis and Devin Grant could significantly impact Syracuse's performance against Colgate. Willis has been a vital offensive asset, and his absence may affect the team's ability to score and maintain offensive momentum. Grant's role in defense is equally critical, potentially leaving gaps that Colgate could exploit. These injuries come at a crucial time as Syracuse prepares for its conference games, where the competition is expected to be more intense. The team's ability to adapt and fill these gaps will be essential for maintaining their competitive edge in upcoming matches.

What's Next?

Syracuse will need to rely on other players to step up in the absence of Willis and Grant. Will Nixon is expected to start as running back, while sophomore Malachi James may see more action. The team will focus on getting its injured players back in time for the game against Clemson next week, which is a significant matchup in their schedule. Coach Brown will likely adjust strategies to compensate for the missing players and ensure the team remains competitive.