FSU football: 3 keys to defeating Syracuse Orange
By Kelvin Hunt
Convert Third Downs
Opposing offenses convert third downs 37 percent of the time against Syracuse. However, that number has increased as the injuries on their defense have mounted.
They like to rush three and drop eight in coverage with their 3-3-5 look, which has made them vulnerable to teams that can run the ball. Notre Dame converted 40 percent of its third downs (6 of 15).
Pittsburgh converted 43.75 percent of its third downs (7 of 16) last week. This aspect has improved drastically for the FSU football offense this season.
They convert third downs at a 50 percent clip, but the last three games have been even better.
They converted 53.85 percent against Clemson, 60 percent against Georgia Tech, and 54.55 percent against Miami last week.
They should have scored 35+ points against Clemson and easily scored 40+ against Georgia Tech and Miami.
If they convert third downs at this rate against Syracuse, that trend of 30+ points should continue. If they score 30+, that’s a win for the Noles.