Syracuse Basketball: Predictions for Georgetown Hoyas matchup

16 Jan 1999: Fans of the Georgetown Hoyas try to distract #5 Anthony Perry of the Syracuse Orangemen while he makes a free throw during the game at the MCI Center in Washington, D.C. Syracuse defeated Georgetown 81-79. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Squire /Allsport
16 Jan 1999: Fans of the Georgetown Hoyas try to distract #5 Anthony Perry of the Syracuse Orangemen while he makes a free throw during the game at the MCI Center in Washington, D.C. Syracuse defeated Georgetown 81-79. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Squire /Allsport
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Paul A. Esden Jr. (6-2)
Prediction: Syracuse wins 78-74

I don’t care what needs to be done but this rivalry needs to stay now and for the future. Both sides are reportedly in preliminary stages of signing a long term agreement, hopefully that occurs sooner rather than later.

But let’s deal with what we have at hand and that’s an all important game between the Hoyas and the Orange. Both of these teams are on four game winning streaks and someone is going to have to lose.

Most of the metrics in this game are virtually identical, including depth for both sides. Syracuse (for the time being) is running nine deep. From my conversation with the Voice of the Hoyas Rich Chvotkin (you can listen to the full conversation above), this Hoyas team can go just as deep into their bench.

Although the real difference maker in this game will be turnovers. The 2-3 zone is a unique weapon for the Orange and most teams aren’t prepared for the dangers it presents. Ultimately the steals Syracuse gets will convert to easy baskets for the Orange.