Paul A. Esden Jr. (3-2)
Prediction: Syracuse wins 75-70
When I first started doing research for this matchup I started to hear a lot of chatter that this was a ‘must win’ game for Syracuse.
Upon first glance I chuckled saying there’s still another 30 plus games to go, how in the holy hell could this be considered a ‘must win’ game? That’s over the top hyperbole.
But after reading several articles like Mike Waters piece from Syracuse.com on the analytics, it is now becoming painfully clear that this is indeed must win territory for the Orange.
This is Syracuse’s last opportunity to pick up a nonconference road victory, the rest of their slate is in the lovely confines of the Carrier Dome.
Ohio State is No. 1 in the new net rankings, which may prove ridiculous, or may not? Despite some pundits considering it a bit nonsensical, the NCAA has confirmed that this is the primary source for determining whether a team will or won’t make the tournament.
Which provides a unique opportunity for Syracuse to pick up a huge marquee win for their resume moving forward. Ohio State’s size I imagine the Orange will be able to take advantage of. The tallest player on the Buckeyes is 6-foot-9, look for Syracuse to take advantage and come away with the slimmest of victories in hostile territory.