The Syracuse Orange (3-4, 1-3) look to stop a three-game losing streak and pull off a 2nd road upset when they head to Atlanta to face the #7 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (7-0, 4-0). Kickoff is at Noon on ESPN and here’s what we’re watching for:
Kevin: Spying on the King
Last year Syracuse used Fadil Diggs to spy Haynes King. Despite the attention, the Georgia Tech QB accounted for three touchdowns and it’s clear that he’s the key player for the Yellow Jackets. I’m curious to see what the Orange does
on Saturday. Will they use David Omopariola or possibly Devin Grant in a similar role? If there’s any chance for the upset, it would seem like Syracuse needs to force King to beat them with his arm, and not with his legs.
Augie: Rush Defense
Just like Kevin said, it is all going to come down to being able to make Georgia Tech have to throw the ball. I am all aboard the Haynes King train. I think he is a dark horse Heisman candidate, and would not be shocked if he is one of the three players that makes the trip to New York City. Syracuse is going to need to stop him from using his legs, especially coming off a game last week where he rushed for 120 yards and a touchdown against Duke. Jamal Haynes will also need to be kept in check, because even though he has not had as much success recently, he can be dangerous. Syracuse actually had success and did not allow Desmond Reid to run wild against them last week, but they will need to have the same type of mentality.
Dom: Take gambles on offense
Georgia Tech is scoring the fourth-most points per game in the ACC. It easily has one of the best rushing offenses, and the Orange’s defense can only do so much, although there is a template to at least hold up. To me, this comes down obviously to an offense that has been stuck in the mud. Syracuse needs to control the clock to allow the defense some chance to get a breather, but at this point, throw the kitchen sink out there. The Yellow Jackets are great across the board, but their defense only has two interceptions on the year. With the way Syracuse’s offense has skidded, there’s nothing to lose with taking some (smart) gambles. Make GT’s coverage have to go make a play.
Max: Stay within striking distance
I know it’s quite the ask, but after watching this offense, I’m not sure a multi-score comeback is possible. Syracuse’s defense has allowed 16+ unanswered points in each of its three losses, and if that happens on Saturday, it’s game over against the No. 7 team in the country. As Dom outlined, the Orange must control the time of possession to have a realistic shot at a win. Slow the tempo, limit the big plays and stay within range is all you can ask for.
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What will you be watching for in this one?
