Syracuse Football: Week 14 Wake Forest crystal ball predictions

Chris Queripel, Contributor (8-3)

After two games on the road, Syracuse football travels home for their season finale. The 4-7 squad will play in the Dome on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. against Wake Forest.

With bowl hopes no longer on the line, Syracuse ends their season with nothing but pride and job security on the line. The ‘Cuse last season saw an uptick in production, and the wins followed. But just one season later, the Orange found themselves back at the bottom of the ACC.

Defensive coordinator Brian Ward already got the pink slip, and it is unsure if any more staff changes will occur. But the immediate focus is against a good Demon Deacons squad. However, the storyline will be getting prepared for next season. Will the recruiting class be the answer to Syracuse’s problems?

The quick response is I don’t believe so. But I do think there is enough talent on this year’s squad to work with in the future.

The one element that needs significant improvement is the offensive line. Now, if that group can turn around, then it’s up to Tommy DeVito. This Saturday will be a good test to see what Tommy DeVito can do. He has over a full season under his belt now, and it’s his time to perform at a high level.

Also, this game provides a sneak peek into the future. Two big losses for the Orange will be Moe Neal and Alton Robinson.

Neal has been productive for Syracuse in the run game and recently has posted a couple of 100-yard performances. After his departure, it’ll be up to a committee to make up for his production. Jarveon Howard, Abdul Adams, and Jawhar Jordan will be in charge. I am most excited about Jordan on that list.

We know what the others can do, but Jordan is unheralded so far. He is regarded as one of the fastest players on the squad and can be a nice change of pace to the more powerful backs.

Syracuse will also lose Alton Robinson and Kendall Coleman to graduation. Both of them have been elite pass rushers for the Orange and will be missed. This week look for the future Orange to get some action and look to shine.

However, Wake Forest is a tough team holding an 8-3 record. Jamie Newman, their quarterback, has put up some impressive numbers, and I don’t see them losing their last game of the year. Give me Wake Forest 42-30.