Since joining the ACC Syracuse has played Virginia three times, losing all three contests. UVA is the only team SU has yet to beat in the new conference, but that could change Sunday. After winning three NCAA Tournament games for the first time since 2013, the Orange now has a shot at revenge against the Wahoos in the Elite Eight.
In these teams’ last three meetings some alarming trends have emerged for Jim Boeheim’s squad.
Syracuse has been outrebounded in every game against Virginia over the last three seasons. In this year’s 73-65 loss for the ‘Cuse, UVA grabbed only three more rebounds than SU, but in the two games prior the ‘Hoos outrebounded the Orange by a combined 32 boards.
Syracuse has also had a problem defending UVA guard Malcolm Brogdon. The senior has scored in double figures in the three games he’s played against SU in his career. In this year’s contest Brogdon dropped 21 points on the Orange, making three three-pointers in the process.
Brogdon’s not the only UVA player to shoot well from deep against SU. Tony Bennett’s side has hit 43% of their threes against the SU zone in the ACC.
Of course Syracuse can get over the hump against Virginia, but to actually do it will require a specific formula. Keep riding Tyler Roberson on the glass, contain Brogdon and defend the three point shot. It’s a big ask, but it’s certainly possible.
Syracuse is hot. Sunday’s game would be the perfect time to finally knock off Virginia with a Final Four berth on the line. Crazier things have happened…
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Posted: Connor Morrissette
