After more than a week off, the Orange return to the hardwood Wednesday for the first of two matchups with the Boston College Eagles. B.C.’s overall record may be less than impressive but the Eagles have impressed early in ACC play. They opened their conference slate with a win over Duke, and just last week they knocked off Florida State. Though they have some ACC loses, they only lost to Virginia and Clemson by a combined five points. Wednesday is far from a pushover and here is what you need to know before the Orange face the pesky Eagles.
Back to the Early Start: For some reason, Syracuse-Pitt was given the second primetime slot last week. No such misfortune this week. The Orange and Eagles will tip-off at 7pm and the game can be seen nationally on ESPNU, so wherever you are, you will be able to see the slugfest that this game is likely to be. The Orange are well rested with a full seven days off and the Eagles are coming off of a hard fought loss on Sunday in Louisville. BC will have a full week off after tonight before returning home next Wednesday.
Syracuse Looking to Continue Recent Success:¬†The Orange lead the all-time series against the Eagles 45-25 and have won five of the last six match-ups. Let’s pretend that it is five in a row and that disaster of a game at Conte Forum last year. Last time the Eagles came to the Dome, the Orange marched to a 23 point victory with Tyus Battle leading the way with 21 points.
What Are the Experts Saying:¬†Boston College seems hard to read this season but that doesn’t mean that Vegas has any trouble making the Orange a relatively comfortable win. Syracuse is a six and a half point favorite after opening at minus seven. ESPN’s basketball power index gives the Orange a 73.4% chance to improve to 3-4 in the conference.
