FSU Season Preview: Opponent Previews

Dec 27, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Syracuse Orange quarterback Terrel Hunt (10) reacts after scoring a touchdown during the fourth quarter of the Texas Bowl against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Reliant Stadium . The Orange defeated the Golden Gophers 21-17. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

AT Syracuse – October 11th

2013 Record: 7-6

Returning Starters: 8 on offense, 7 on defense

If there is a trap game on the schedule for FSU this year, this one is it. Syracuse finished the 2013 season on a high note, winning four of their last six games and this year they return the majority of the players responsible for that improvement. The Orange return QB Terrel Hunt, who really came on strong at the end of last season, veterans along the offensive line (four of five starters from 2013 return), and the defense should improve in year two under head coach Scott Shafer. To go along with Hunt, the Orange return three running backs with over 200 yards rushing. They also return seven of their top pass-catchers including their leading receiver from 2013, Ashton Broyld.

On defense, the Orange return four of their top five defensive linemen, five of their top six linebackers, and four of their top five defensive backs. Overall fluidity should be improved in year two under coordinator Chuck Bullough’s defense.