FSU football: Behind enemy lines with Syracuse site InsideTheLoudHouse

Q&A with InsideTheLoudHouse (Part Three)

CC: Who are some impact players that Seminole fans should be mindful of in this contest? Are there some ways that you believe Syracuse could exploit Florida State offensively or defensively?

ITLH: “As I’ve mentioned Shrader, when at his best, can give opposing defenses headaches with his ability to run and pass. The issue here is that 1) the Orange hasn’t run the ball well over the last two games, against top competition, and 2) Shrader hasn’t looked all that great throwing the ball, but his receiver room has also lost some key depth.

For example, heading into the Clemson game, Syracuse football was in the top 20 nationally in rushing yards per game, at 213.2, and in total offense per contest, at 507.8 yards.

Yet against the Tigers and the Tar Heels, in total, the Orange accumulated fewer than 200 combined yards on the ground. That’s an issue.

If the ‘Cuse can get things back on track with its run game, that would prove huge, as methodical drives led by a solid rushing attack will eat up the clock, keeping the Florida State offense off of the field, while enabling the SU defense to rest.

Shrader and Allen are both currently in the top 15 of the ACC in rushing yards per game. Allen has also shown, at times, a keen ability to catch passes and then grab a good number of yards after those catches.

Even with the WR room stung by injuries, there is talent there. Receivers Umari Hatcher, Donovan Brown, and Damien Alford have all had some bright spots so far in 2023, but in my humble opinion, none of them has been a consistent go-to guy with Gadsden out. Which of these receivers can step up against an FSU defense that does allow nearly 240 passing yards per affair?

To reiterate, a big key for Syracuse football is forcing turnovers, getting short fields, and converting those Florida State miscues into touchdowns, not field-goal attempts.

Within the ACC, the Seminoles are middle-of-the-pack in scoring defense, and the Orange has to put a sizable number of points on the scoreboard to have any sort of chance in this league clash.

On defense, Syracuse football absolutely struggled to contain a prolific North Carolina offense last Saturday. However, over the last two games, defensive back Justin Barron has led the ‘Cuse in total tackles, with a combined 22. He’s got talent.”