Syracuse Football: Top 5 Plays of Week 6 Versus Pitt (video highlights)

4. Steve Ishmael Lunging Catch for Huge Gain

Is this guy a better version of Amba Etta Tawo? I don’t think so, but his stats are looking like they might be. Through six games, Steve Ishmael has 56 receptions for 729 yards, according to ESPN.com. Etta Tawo had 94 receptions last year for 1,482 yards, so anything can happen. He is on pace to fly by Etta Tawo’s marks which should scare ACC opponents coming up.

In this game, Ishmael was up to his same old antics, especially on this play early in the game. Ishmael did a post route, Dungey saw him, and hoisted it up hoping Ish could make some separation just as the ball was coming down so he could make the catch. He did, hence: big play.

Dungey may have lightly overthrown it, but Ishmael adjusted and lunged for the ball as it came down in front of him. The defender had no chance to reach it unless he did the same. The play was a huge gain for the Orange early, and put them on the right side of the field.

It’s plays like these from Ish that make him one of the best wide receivers in the country. Yeah, he can disappear in games at times, but when you need him to go out and make a big play he can deliver. Whether that be a short screen, then getting through contact, or simply catching a long ball, Ish can deliver. Syracuse Football is going to need much more of these big plays throughout the rest of the season.