Post Game Analysis: Syracuse defeats IUP: 83-65

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Jan 5, 2016; Syracuse, NY, USA; Syracuse Orange mascot, Otto performs prior to the game against the Clemson Tigers at the Carrier Dome. Clemson won 74-73 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

Not usually does an exhibition give us lots to think about going into the second exhibition game. This game though, gives Syracuse Basketball fans lots to be excited and worry about.

When you’re ranked 19th in the nation going into you first exhibition game the expectations are pretty high. However when you lead by only 5 points at halftime versus a Division II team you get a bit concerned. This is exactly the situation Syracuse was in against Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), 38-33.

Yes, the Orange would go on to win 83-65, but let’s put things in perspective. Syracuse trailed most of the first half, taking their first lead of the game at 30-29 at the 5:10 mark. It took nearly 10-12 minutes for Syracuse to realize that their intensity was not keeping up with IUP’s. The Orange then finally put things into second (and maybe even third gear) and went on a 18-2 drive which changed the game for good.

So what did we learn from this game. The Answer: lots, but here’s five things.

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