#12 Syracuse v. #3 Notre Dame Preview
Syracuse-Notre Dame Series:
- Game will be at Yankee Stadium in New York, New York
- Game will start at 2:30 PM ET
- Series is led by Notre Dame 5-3
- Notre Dame holds current win streak of 2
Offensive Players to watch:
Syracuse: Eric Dungey is a dangerous weapon for the Orange and they will try to implement his skill set in the best way Saturday. Dungey has amounted a staggering (2,193) passing yards this year accompanied by (14) touchdown passes, as well. If you have ever watched this young man play, you can see his IQ in the terms of spacing for rushing and passing. This will be a viable asset to use against this Notre Dame defense, who can give up some very unfortunate plays. I think we see Dungey have a dance on this Notre Dame defense as they try to figure out how to stop him.
Notre Dame: Dexter Williams, after last week, shows he is just as much as a problem as Ian Book. Williams had a field day on the Seminoles as he ran up (202) rushing yards with (2) touchdowns. Williams is a power-back who can give linebackers some trouble with tackling. Syracuse’s defensive weakness is passing, but I think Notre Dame overlooks what the Orange will be preparing for and apply a heavy rush game with Williams.
Defensive Players to watch:
Syracuse: Ryan Guthrie has shown up strong for Syracuse this season and surprised many with his progression. This young linebacker has ran the middle of the field for the Orange to ensure no big plays happen. Also, Guthrie has shown to be a presence in the backfield with (11.5) tackles-for-loss on the season. Needless to say, Guthrie is a heavy defensive leader that Syracuse will need to be on point for Saturday. With (77) total tackles already, look for Guthrie to add a decent amount to that and push for an upset.
Notre Dame: Julian Okwara is just what Notre Dame needs on the defensive front in terms of production. Okwara has brought a highly sought-after ability in speed. Compared to a traditional defensive end, Okwara is lighter, which makes it easier to slip the edges and get to the quarterback. On the season, Okwara has attained (8.0) tackles-for-loss and (3.5) sacks. This doesn’t show out against others at the position, but shows a line of consistency for the Irish. Watch for the Syracuse tackles to have a troubling night with Okwara at their front.
The Basics:
Syracuse comes into the game with a fast offense who is known to run up with score with certain teams. However, what the Orange bring in offense, they lack in defense. I don’t think we will see an Irish defense trying to find a grip on defense, like in some weeks. However, we will see a Syracuse team that will be able to get a couple of scoring drives on Notre Dame. I think it will be a great game to watch offensively, but Notre Dame’s defense will come to play.
Prediction:
38-23 Notre Dame
Photo Credits: https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2666942-notre-dame-vs-syracuse-live-score-highlights-for-fighting-irish-vs-orange