From the Patriots comeback win in Super Bowl LI, to the infamous “Miracle on Ice” during the 1980 Olympics, sports fans have learned to expect the unexpected. But is Syracuse pulling off the upset to #7 Georgia Tech out of the realm of possibilities?
After losing three straight games, SU faces their toughest test of the season. The Yellow Jackets are 7-0 for the first time since 1966. With wins versus Colorado and Clemson, Tech has also reached its highest ranking since 2009.
Georgia Tech holds an explosive offense which has collected over 1,000 yards in their three ACC matches. Led by quarterback Haynes King, the Yellow Jackets rank 3rd and 4th respectively in the ACC for yards per game (462) and points per game (35). King, who has started each of the past three seasons for GT, has thrown 4 touchdowns this season. But he shines most with his legs. The Senior has totaled a whopping 560 rushing yards this season, trailing only Arkansas QB Taylen Green for the most yards via the ground.
But Syracuse defense comes into week 9 with momentum of their own after a strong performance versus Pitt. In the loss, SU surrendered a season low 255 yards and recorded a season high 7 sacks. The Orange also kept Pitt quarterback Mason Hinchell in check, allowing only 140 yards through the air.
But SU’s defensive questions are overshadowed by the offensive struggles under quarterback Rickie Collins. With Collins at the helm, Syracuse has been unable to produce any offense, reaching the endzone only 4 times in three games. After throwing three 1st half interceptions versus Pitt, head coach Fran Brown pulled Collins for Freshman Luke Carney. The Ex-LSU Tiger did return two drives later and was reaffirmed as the starter from Brown after the game.
No matter who’s under center for SU, tailback Yasin Willis must make his presence felt on the ground. In the past two games, Willis rushed for only 57 yards in his 28 attempts. But perhaps Saturday could be the Sophomore’s bounce-back game. Georgia Tech’s defense ranks last in the ACC at stopping the run, allowing 155 yards per game.
If Cuse nation has learned one thing from their squad under Fran Brown, it’s to never count out the Orange. While Saturday will be a tall task for 3-4 SU, the team will hopefully be motivated to avenge their recent struggles as they look for their first ranked win of the season.
