Who is Syracuse?

The Bulls hit the road again as they take on the 5-4 (1-3) Syracuse Orangemen in another Big East game (anyone still have faith in this game). The Orange just lost an ugly game on the road to UCONN where they led for most of the contest. They have played well at home, going 3-1 at the Carrier Dome so the homefield will be a big advantage for the Orange. USF is looking to avenge the 13 to 9 loss they suffered last season at home, but can they really win this game with how poorly they are playing at lately?

The Orange average 26.7 points per game, so the defense will have to contend with this. The Bulls are allowing 23.1 points per game, so expect some scoring in this one. The Orange average 116.3 rush yards per game, so the front 7 will have to contend with their attack. They also average 223.1 passing yards per game, so the secondary will have to be ready for Nassib and his targets like Chew on the edge. The Orange are not the best offensive team, but the play well, feeding off their coaching from Marrone and will be physical against the Bulls the entire game.

The Orange defense is allowing 26.9 points per game, so once again, Daniels and company should be able to move the ball and get points in this game if they can figure out how to throw down the field. The defense allows 115.4 yards on the ground and 267.4 yards per game passing, so the receivers should be open down the field, but the playcalling has to be adjusted to find them. USF is averaging 32.5 points per game and 199.8 yards a game on the ground, so expect Scott, Murray, and Daniels to have some success on the ground attack and take some pressure off the young receivers.

Last week was a must win for the Bulls and now they face a pride game against the Orange. This is where the real men on the team, the ones who want the bowl game and a chance to save face, have to step up and win the game. Losing 4 straight has angered the fans and the need for a win is huge right now for the team. Let's all pray they can figure out how to do it.