Syracuse Basketball: Predictions for Arkansas State game

Andrew Carey (7-4)

Prediction: Syracuse wins 68-54

Syracuse should get back on track against Arkansas State. Although the Orange did not play well at all against Old Dominion and Buffalo, those are two very good teams, and one in Buffalo that will definitely make the NCAA tournament. If I had to guess I would say Old Dominion would too. But that is not the point.

The point is that Syracuse, didn’t control what they could. They played well in the first half of both games, but then came out flat and not ready to play in the second half of both contests. That simply cannot continue.

Arkansas State is not the quality opponent that ODU and UB are, but Syracuse cannot take anyone lightly at this point in the season. Frank Howard finally had a decent game against UB, but still the offense struggles with him on the floor. I think Jim Boeheim needs to play Jalen Carey more. He is the fastest player on the team by a massive margin, and his ability to finish around the rim makes him a tough cover. He still makes the occasional mistake, but if Boeheim wants this team to go as far as he thinks it can, he is going to need to trust Carey more than he has.

I would like to see a small ball lineup of Carey, Howard, Battle, Hughes, and Brissett or Dolezaj. Just to see what it has to offer. Orange defeatsArkansas State 68-54.