Syracuse Football: Week 9 Florida State Seminoles crystal ball predictions

Paul A. Esden Sr. Contributor (3-4)

I will be the first to say that I never thought we would be here after seven games. The expectations were so high after a 10 win season. Who is to blame? Coaching?  Offensive line? Skittish quarterback (in the words of Sam Darnold ‘I see ghosts’)? Lack of discipline? Underperforming wide receiver corp (dropped balls)? Playcalling? I truly believe it is all of these things that are holding Cuse back from turning the corner on this season.

Last year Nykeim Johnson turned a few heads when he was quoted.

"“We are definitely looking to run up the score and annihilate them.”"

What was more surprising is this came from a 5-foot- 8 167 pound sophomore wide receiver with 14 career catches. His stats from that game were not overly impressive 3 catches for 32 yards. However, as a national audience can attest he walked the walk when he trucked a Florida State defender on his way to a 23-yard reception. Sadly the fire that not only Nykeim but the entire Orange squad demonstrated last year has been missing in recent games.

The intangibles (heart, fire, toughness) are what may be the secret ingredient for the Orange to turn this season around.

Onto the prediction.

This game is the ghost of Christmas past if you will. We came out last year and simply punched the Seminoles in the mouth and they never recovered as we embarrassed them by dominating them in every facet of the game 30-7.

I normally would talk about the opposing team and their strengths and weaknesses but to me it is simple. If the Orange execute as they are capable of they will win a close game, period. If not this game could get ugly early. I predict the Orange will lose this one big 42-14. Prove me, wrong boys. As always Be Loud, Be Proud, Be ORANGE!