Can Syracuse avoid another close game?
The Syracuse Orange (2-0) host the Youngstown State Penguins (1-1) at 1:00 on ACCNX/ESPN+. It’s the first-ever meeting between the schools and here’s how we think this one will unfold:
Kevin: Syracuse 82, Youngstown State 70
This seems like the right opponent for the Orange to work out some of their issues. Youngstown State enters the game shooting 19% from 3 and have committed 23 turnovers in two games. They do have 7’3 center Gabe Dynes protecting the rim, so Syracuse would be wise to look to drive and kick instead of challenging him. I think this is a game where it would be important to get Chris Bell going early.
Max: Syracuse 86, Youngstown State 72
Adrian Autry desperately needs a stress-free win, and I think he’ll get it here. Youngstown State is a completely different team from last year, losing four starters and has to replace a staggering amount of minutes. Both teams are still figuring out their identities with tons of new faces, so the talent gap between the ACC and Horizon League will be the deciding factor in this one.
Dom: Syracuse 80, Youngstown State 67
Youngstown State’s offensive concerns across the board will make it tough for the Penguins to keep up with the Orange. Syracuse’s outside shooting will be tested considering Youngstown State does have Dynes down low and will clearly look to get on the break. The offense should take care of itself and do enough, but it’s on the defensive side of the floor that will determine whether this is a close contest or a blowout.
Mike: Syracuse 82, Youngstown State 64
Alright guys, time to play like how I thought opening night was going to go. These Penguins are just as sloppy with possession as their NHL counterparts – which as a fan of that team is really saying something – so SU should come out assertive and make them feel pressure right away. They’ll have to work away from the paint with the big man matchup but there are enough shooters to get the job done comfortably.
Szuba: Syracuse 85, Youngstown State 75
Syracuse desperately needs a double-digit win over a less talented team for both its confidence and analytics’ sake. I think that will happen Saturday. The Orange have struggled on the defensive end but Youngstown State isn’t a skilled offensive team and doesn’t push pace. The rotations in this matchup will be interesting. Could Elijah Moore (shooting) or Kyle Cuffe (defense) see more time? Is this the first game where we see Naheem McLeod to combat the Penguins’ 7-foot-3 Dynes? Either way, I like Syracuse by ten in its final tuneup before the competition becomes real.
What’s your prediction?