FSU football: 3 things to look for against Syracuse Orange

By Kelvin Hunt | Oct 12, 2023

TALLAHASSEE, FL - NOVEMBER 11: Chief Osceola and Renegade of the Florida State Seminoles planet the flaming spear on the 50 yardline before the game against the Boston College Eagles at Doak Campbell Stadium on Bobby Bowden Field on November 11, 2016 in Tallahassee, Florida. Florida State defeated Boston College 45 to 7. (Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Bryan Bennett/Getty Images) /

Syracuse QB Run

One of the reasons Syracuse has struggled once moving into conference play is the lack of playmakers. Their top receiver is out of the season, and running back Sean Tucker went to the NFL after last season.

Quarterback Garrett Shrader is the straw that stirs the drink, and much of his production comes via his legs. FSU football fans were introduced to Shrader in 2021, as he broke several long runs. He’s improved as a passer, but still not great in that area.

He has a strong arm and can hit a guy if he’s open. He’s averaged about 12 carries per game and is the second-leading rusher on the team.

He’s rushed for six touchdowns and 368 yards through six games. However, he tends to run less as Syracuse gets down in games.

If the Noles can get off to a quick start like they did against Virginia Tech, Shrader is more inclined to start throwing the ball than sticking with the designed run stuff the way Virginia Tech did last week.

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