It’s Thanksgiving day, so let’s¬†take a look at a few things Syracuse football and basketball fans can be thankful for.
- Jim Boeheim
The story is well known, Boeheim almost left SU before he even made the team. Then he almost left again before he was offered the head-coaching job. In his book, Boeheim even mentioned the possibility of leaving SU in the 80’s for another job. While some fans may think Boeheim has overstayed his welcome, or gets more credit than he deserved, he has put together a string of 39 years of nationally ranked¬†basketball. A lot of programs go through ups and downs, but the only downs for the Orange have been the occasional trips to the NIT. Syracuse has not finished a season under .500 in Boeheim‚Äôs 39 years as head coach (last time was¬†1969 under Ray Danforth).
And the Per’fessor is likely staying a few more years, especially when the “best recruiting class ever” comes in.
- Chris McCullough
McCullough is one of the fastest rising freshmen according to ESPN’s Chad Ford. On Wednesday, Ford wrote:
‚ÄúNo one has seen his stock rise more in the first two weeks of the season than McCullough‚Ķ what intrigues scouts is what’s behind the numbers. McCullough has a 7-foot-3 wingspan, is an explosive leaper and is the rare big who can protect the rim on defense and stretch the floor on offense.‚Äù
The Fizz followed McCullough’s recruitment closely and knew he would fit right in with the Orange, but averaging 15.6 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.6 blocks through the first five games is even more than most expected. Unfortunately, it looks like McCullough might be playing himself into one and done territory.
- The Carrier Dome
When it is 30 degrees and snowing the last week of the football season, it’s pretty nice to be able to sit inside the always toasty Dome. It’s¬†also great to set new hoops records every year, like¬†overall attendance or a single game record. It’s¬†right in the heart of the SU campus. Great for both students and fans who get the feel of being on a college campus each every¬†game.
About a year ago, there seemed to be some major momentum in getting a new stadium. As much as we may complain about the Dome being hot and stuffy, not being able to move the basketball court to the center of the building, or having bleachers without backs, the Dome is perfect for what SU needs and does not come attached with some of the local politics that a new stadium might carry.
- Football season is almost over
This has been a painful year for Scott Shafer’s squad. The Orange have just one win at home (against Villanova). The offense has left much to be desired. But a new practice facility is opening up soon (it was supposed to be ready for bowl game prep). Hopefully, things will be looking up for the Orange.
- Class of 2015 recruiting classes
We already mentioned the basketball class. New Jersey running back Dontae Strickland has been tearing it up this year. Recently, the Orange has added two JuCo transfers from the west coast - Eric Dungey and tight end Trey Dunkelberger. Jordan Fredericks has been extremely effective this year in Lawrence, NY. The 2015 football class is one of the better ones Syracuse has had recently.
Posted: Seth Goldberg
