ETHAN (12-1 LAST SEASON): Syracuse 38, Colgate 7
The Orange are going to come out of the gates hot and play well in all aspects against an FCS opponent in the Raiders. This game should be taken similarly to a preseason contest, and while the starters should play, if they’re in the game in the 4th quarter then something has gone terribly wrong. Starting the season with a W for the third straight season will give SU the confidence it needs to start the year, and continue momentum throughout the non conference schedule.
LIAM (10-3 LAST SEASON): Syracuse 45, Colgate 7
The name of the game here is get every single important player off the field by halftime, especially Garrett Shrader. If a big-name is on the field at the start of the third quarter, then something has gone horribly wrong on the field or Dino Babers made a bad decision (remember Tucker going down in Q3 against Wagner?). But, a 3-8 FCS team represents a golden opportunity for Jason Beck and Rocky Long to tinker with their units and try new things. Anything less than a blowout in this one is a major disappointment.
FRANCESCO (7-1 LAST SEASON): Syracuse 52, Colgate 10
This is a glorified preseason game for the Orange. It’s a chance to test themselves in an unscripted, low pressure situation against an FCS team that went 3-8 last year. It could be a good thing for SU. Garrett Shrader gets more time to work his way back from injury. Jason Beck and Rocky Long get a dress rehearsal for their new units. Ideally, some young players get a chance at some collegiate experience late in the game. As far as the competitive portion, that’ll be over after a quarter.
ADAM: Syracuse 52, Colgate 0
Anything less than a dominating blowout would be a cause for concern. Last season, Colgate was one of the worst teams in the FCS with a 3-8 record. The Orange offense should be able to pick apart the Raiders defense. On the other side of the ball, Syracuse is bigger, stronger, and faster. This is a is the definition of a cupcake game.
TYLER: Syracuse 48, Colgate 13
SU will play against Colgate somewhat like a preseason game, but that doesn’t mean it won’t still be a blowout. Garrett Shrader, LeQuint Allen, and Oronde Gadsden will each get chances to shine, and then SU’s depth pieces will get some reps and keep running up the score.
Colgate hasn’t had a winning record since 2018, despite playing against FCS talent. Last year, the Raiders allowed over 428 yards per game, the second-worst mark in the Patriot League. The only bright spot for Colgate this season will likely be junior Michael Brescia, a dual-threat quarterback who led the Raiders in rushing yards each of the last two years. He’ll score a late touchdown against Syracuse’s second-team defense, but that won’t make a dent in the big lead the Orange will build early.
