With under three weeks left in the regular season, Syracuse is set to embark on the highly-anticipated toughest part of its schedule. Over the next week, the Orange battles Louisville, Duke and North Carolina, three team’s ranked in the top 18 of the AP poll. Doesn’t it always seem like SU plays the toughest portion of its conference schedule towards the end of the season.
Three bold predictions for that stretch and beyond.
1. Syracuse wins a thriller at the buzzer
Central New Yorkers have become very familiar with thrilling victories. Just a few months ago, Tyus Battle hit another well-timed shot against Georgetown. Battle did the same against Clemson two season ago, and who could forget John Gillion’s game winner against Duke? Given the high stakes of these upcoming games, expect another instant classic. Whether it comes in front of 35,000+ plus against Duke or on the road in North Carolina, the Cardiac ‘Cuse have certainly found a niche.
John Gillon's buzzer beater for @Cuse_MBB against Duke was definitely a #MustSeeMoment. pic.twitter.com/QIBHLIiEcC
— ACC Digital Network (@theACCDN) December 21, 2017
2. Frank Howard proves the doubters wrong
Howard has been the topic of many lately. Fans are worried about his production and some are even calling for Jalen Carey to see more playing time because of it. Howard is a gamer and he’s been down this road before. As you know, the Orange usually kick it into gear when March rolls around. Expect Howard to do the same. He’s an intelligent player with a toughness that will be critical for the Orange in the NCAA Tournament. With the Big Dance looming, Howard will almost certainly step up his game.
3. Buddy Boeheim explodes for a career high
Against Boston College, Boeheim recorded a career-high 16 points inside the Dome. While that was impressive, an even bigger scoring day wouldn’t be surprising. The three ball is going to be so important for Syracuse down the stretch of the season. Given his comfortability, I’d expect that to happen over the next couple of weeks.
