Orangeyes Daily Articles for Tuesday for Football

[sutomcat]

Welcome to World Rock Paper Scissors Day!


One of the world's simplest and most common hand signal games is celebrated today. Rock paper scissors is usually played by two people, often when something needs to be chosen, such as whose turn is next. Hands are made into the shape of a rock, piece of paper, or scissors. A rock is made with a fist, paper by holding the hand in a flat, outstretched position, and scissors by making a fist, with the middle and index finger pointing out like a V at a slight angle. Rock breaks scissors, paper covers rock, and scissors cuts paper.

A similar game was first mentioned in Wuzazu, a book by Xie Zhaozhi, a Chinese writer of the Ming dynasty. Known as shousiling, the game was said to date back to the Han dynasty which ranged from 206 BCE to 220 CE. Hand signal games traveled from China to Japan in the seventeenth century, where they became known as sansukumi-ken, and rose in popularity. "Ken" meant fist games, "san" meant three-way, and "sukami" meant deadlock. There were variations of the games, the earliest being mushi-ken. The first form of the game to use symbols for rock, paper, and scissors was jan-ken. Created in the late nineteenth century, the modern version of the game is derived from it.

SU News

Syracuse football Week 1 depth chart: What percentage of new faces earned spots? (analysis) (PS; $; Leiker)

Syracuse football’s Week 1 depth chart didn’t really feature any true surprises for those who followed fall camp closely.

Wide receiver Justus Ross-Simmons was left off as he continues rehabbing a minor injury. Michael Johnson Jr. and Carlos Del Rio-Wilson are listed with an “or” at backup quarterback as they continue their battle. Notre Dame transfer Clarence Lewis earned a spot at corner, as did Buffalo transfer Devin Grant, who moved over from safety.

What the depth chart did feature a lot of, though, is true freshmen.

Nine members of the Class of 2024 earned spots on Syracuse’s season-opening depth chart.

One could even get a starting nod on defense Saturday: Marcellus Barnes Jr., who’s listed with an “or” with Grant for a starting CB spot.

Players listed with an “or” are listed in numerical order by jersey number. Whether the first “or” is listed ahead of the second name on the chart or third indicates whether players are vying for first string or second string.

Freshmen expected to feature based on Syracuse.com’s projected depth chart were Barnes, Yasin Willis (No. 2 running back), Maraad Watson (No. 1 defensive tackle) and Braheem Long Jr. (No. 2 strong safety).

Unexpected appearances included Emanuel Ross (No. 2 slot receiver), Jahide Lesaine Jr. and KingJoseph Edwards (No. 1 and edge rushers), Ibn McDaniels (No. 2 cornerback) and Malachi James (No. 1 kick returner).

James was a surprise addition on National Signing Day who was originally unrated by the major recruiting services.

He is the New Jersey record holder in the 100-meter dash with a time of 10.18 seconds. Syracuse boasted on social media during fall camp that he hit 23.6 miles per hour.
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(youtube; podcast; Syracuse Orange)

Emily Leiker and Chris Carlson go over Syracuse's official depth chart released Monday. They also discuss some of Fran Brown's comments on the two-deep and his program overall in his press conference. Then, Emily and Chris share their instant reactions to the final episode of ACC All-Access with Syracuse football. How did Syracuse benefit from the show? What was left out?

Syracuse football coach Fran Brown on what he has learned about himself (youtube; video; Syracuse Orange)

Syracuse football coach Fran Brown on what he has learned about himself after his first fall practice season Brown will coach his first game against Ohio University.

Fran Brown Kept ELITE TALENT on Syracuse Football | Syracuse Orange Podcast (youtube; podcast; Locked on Syracuse)

Syracuse Football was able to bring back a good amount of returning talent. Head Coach Fran Brown was able to keep Oronde Gadsden and LeQuint Allen on offense. Plus, the Orange retained Marlowe Wax, Justin Barron, and Alijah Clark on defense.Jackson Holzer goes over the five best returning players for Syracuse Football in 2024.0:00- Offense Returners11:21- Defense Returners19:14- Final List

What Stands Out about Syracuse Football's Depth Chart? | Syracuse Orange Podcast (youtube; podcast; Locked on Syracuse; premieres at noon EST)

Syracuse Football released its 2024 depth chart. Most of results didn't come as a surprise, however there are still some questions. Fran Brown didn't spill the beans on who's the backup quarterback between Michael Johnson Jr. and Carlos Del Rio-Wilson. Justus Ross-Simmons is out due to a hamstring injury so Umari Hatcher is taking his place. Clarence Lewis is the cornerback one, but cornerback two is between Marcellus Barnes and Devin Grant.Jackson Holzer gives you his depth chart takeaways on this mini edition of the Locked On Syracuse Podcast.

Which NEW Syracuse Football Players are the Best? | Syracuse Orange Podcast (youtube; podcast; Locked on Syracuse; premieres at 5 PM EST)

Syracuse Football brought in 45 new players this offseason. Fran Brown brought in prized transfers Kyle McCord, Fadil Diggs, Zeed Haynes, and Savion Washington. The Orange were also able to secure four-star recruit Marcellus Barnes.Jackson Holzer gives you his five best newcomers on Syracuse's roster on this edition of the Locked On Syracuse Podcast.

ACC football Power Rankings: Where does Syracuse rank to start the season? (PS; Carlson)

That was quick.

The first college football game of the season, played last Saturday in Ireland, delivered a blow to every preseason effort to rank the 17 teams in the ACC.

I would have opened the year with Florida State as my No. 1. I would have been wrong already.

The defending conference champion was beaten by Georgia Tech on Saturday, a performance that had to be satisfying to most of the ACC, which spent the offseason listening to FSU backers who don’t believe the rest of the league is in the same weight class as the Seminoles.

It should be (but probably won’t be) a humbling moment for Florida State.

When I look back on this initial ranking, it will undoubtedly be a humbling moment for me.

Here’s how I’d rank the ACC this week.

1. Georgia Tech​

Record: (1-0, 1-0 ACC)

Last week’s result: Win 24-21 vs. Florida State in Dublin, Ireland

This week’s schedule: Saturday vs. Georgia State, 8 p.m., ACC Network

Why No. 1? I’m going to try to eliminate my preseason biases once teams have taken the field. So while I don’t expect Georgia Tech to remain here over the long haul, the Yellow Jackets deserve credit for shaking up the league’s snow globe immediately.

The result didn’t appear to be a fluke either. Georgia Tech overwhelmed a much-hyped Florida State defensive front, averaging 5.3 yards per rush. Quarterback Haynes King moved the chains both passing (146 yards) and running (54), looking like a player who was recruited to Texas A&M as the No. 5 dual-threat quarterback in the country in 2020.

Syracuse faces Georgia Tech in Week 2. The meeting will be an excellent early barometer for an unproven Orange defensive front.

Maybe the Syracuse schedule isn’t so easy after all?

2. Miami​

Record: 0-0

Last week’s result: None

This week’s schedule: Saturday at Florida, 3:30 p.m., ABC

Why No. 2? Miami seems to be the consensus choice as the league’s most talented team, although in recent years the Hurricanes have regularly been overhyped, underachieving and questionably coached.

Here I am doing my best Charlie Brown and coming back for another kick at the football.

The love for the Hurricanes this year stems from recruiting efforts that have been ranked the best in the ACC the past two seasons, supplemented by Miami’s aggressive efforts in the transfer portal, which included landing quarterback Cam Ward.

Look out for sophomore defensive end Ruben Bain Jr. Last year he earned the second-best pass rushing grade that Pro Football Focus has ever awarded a freshman.

Only Texas A&M’s Myles Garrett graded better as a first-year player. The rest of PFF’s top five included LSU’s Harold Perkins, Ohio State’s Nick Bosa and Clemson’s Dexter Lawrence. That is elite company and a strong track record for identifying stars.

3. North Carolina State​

Record: 0-0

Last week’s result: None

This week’s schedule: Thursday vs. Western Carolina, 7 p.m., ACC Network

Why No. 3? North Carolina State has been consistently good in recent years under Dave Doeren and was ranked by On3.com as one of three ACC teams that improved themselves in the transfer portal more than Syracuse did.

For what it’s worth, Florida State and Louisville are the others.

The Wolfpack’s efforts this year included poaching Duke’s leading rusher (Jordan Waters), a new starting quarterback in Coastal Carolina’s Grayson McCall and former Ohio State wide receiver Noah Rogers.

While McCall will need to prove himself at the Power-Four level, his dual-threat abilities should fit nicely with former SU offensive coordinator Robert Anae.

4. Clemson​

Record: 0-0

Last week’s result: None

This week’s schedule: Saturday vs Georgia in Atlanta, noon, ABC

Why No. 4? Fans who love to see players stick with the schools they picked out of high school ought to be rooting hard for Dabo Swinney, whose team is the only one in the conference that didn’t add a single player via the transfer portal.

Swinney’s thinking is admirable. He doesn’t like to force players he’s recruited out if they don’t live up to his expectations. He doesn’t want to promise playing time to transfers when he believes in his guys.

But adding a couple difference-makers at certain spots seems like it could have put Clemson closer to the top of this list. Returning quarterback Cade Klubnik, for instance, ranked 220nd on PFF’s list of graded quarterbacks last year. If nothing else, the quarterback job was ripe for a competition this offseason.

5. Louisville​

Record: 0-0

Last week’s games: None

This week’s schedule: Saturday vs. Austin Peay, noon, ACC Network

Why No. 5? The Cardinals are the polar opposite of Clemson, seemingly going all-in on the transfer portal as a way of life. This season may go a long way toward determining whether that approach is viable, both financially and when it comes to consistent winning.

Only Deion Sanders has hit the transfer portal harder than Louisville coach Jeff Brohm over the past two seasons. The recruiting website On3.com lists Louisville as having brought in 58 transfers over the past two years.

Last year, the portal class carried Louisville to the ACC title game. This year, the Cardinals were ranked as owning the country’s best transfer class.

Quarterback Jack Plummer was a critical piece last season. Now the same must happen with Tyler Shough, who comes over from Texas Tech.

6. Florida State​

Record: 0-1 (0-1 ACC)

Last week’s result: Loss 24-21 vs. Georgia Tech in Dublin, Ireland

This week’s schedule: Monday vs. Boston College, 7:30 p.m., ESPN

Why No. 6? I could drop Florida State to the bottom of this list for losing a game, but the Seminoles only fell by three points to a team I momentarily have at No. 1.

As we saw at the end of last year, Florida State isn’t the same without the dynamic dual threat that Jordan Travis presented. Still, DJ Uiagalelei is a passable quarterback and Florida State will probably wake up enough to return to the top five.

7. Virginia Tech​

Record: 0-0

Last week’s game: None

This week’s schedule: Saturday at Vanderbilt, noon, ESPN

Why No. 7? Like Clemson, the Hokies are trying to win the old-fashioned way this year.

Virginia Tech returns the bulk of the key players from a team that was bowl eligible last season. The Hokies added just seven transfers, opting to try to improve through continuity instead.

One major addition was defensive tackle Aeneas Peebles, an All-ACC third-team player last season with Duke.

8. Syracuse​

Record: 0-0

Last week’s result: None

This week’s schedule: Saturday vs. Ohio, 3:30 p.m., ACC Network

Why No. 8? Syracuse has finished with a winning league record just once since joining the league in 2013.

New coach Fran Brown has done enough this offseason to give the Orange a strong chance at changing that history, which is good enough for the Orange to crack the top half.
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Five things to know about Ohio five days away from the season opener (orangefizz.net; Shalam)

The anticipation around Syracuse is building with the Orange’s season opener just five days away. There are lots of storylines heading into week one, how Fran Brown will manage his first game as head coach, if Kyle McCord will live up to the hype, etc. But what about the team on the other sideline? Here are five things to know about Ohio ahead of Saturday.

Last year

The Bobcats finished second in the MAC East with a final record of 10-3, ending off the year with a win over Georgia Southern in the Myrtle Beach Bowl. Ohio also earned notable wins over Iowa State, Central Michigan, and FAU. The three losses for the Bobcats came to Northern Illinois, Miami Ohio, and San Diego State. Ohio has finished the last two campaigns with 10 wins, and they’ll be hungry for win number 2024 come Saturday.

Transfer Portal

While Syracuse might’ve benefited from the transfer portal, Ohio did not. The Bobcats lost star quarterback Kurtis Rouke who is headed to Indiana, and running back Sieh Bangura who is known as Minnesota. Ohio had 26 players leave the program overall, which led to them being ranked nearly worst in 2024 college football transfer activity returning production.

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Fran Brown talks Syracuse's roster, previews season-opener vs. Ohio (DO; Girshon)

Syracuse’s football program has been transformed since Fran Brown’s arrival as head coach on Nov. 28, 2023. The former University of Georgia defensive backs coach dominated the transfer portal in his first offseason at the helm, adding key players on both sides of the ball — like quarterback Kyle McCord and edge rusher Fadil Diggs.

Additionally, Brown retained LeQuint Allen Jr., Oronde Gadsden II, Marlowe Wax and Justin Barron, among numerous other players. The combination of incoming and returning players gives the Orange one of their most talented rosters in the last decade.

Perhaps the biggest difference Brown has brought to Syracuse is the culture he’s established, with his D.A.R.T. — detailed, accountable, relentless and tough — philosophy completely reshaping the program. On Saturday, the beneficial offseason gets its first real test against Ohio at the JMA Wireless Dome.

“I’m very thankful to be the head football coach here,” Brown said ahead of his first game as SU’s head coach. “I’m also thankful that we have an opportunity of playing against Ohio.”

Here are some takeaways from Brown’s weekly press conference before his first game as SU’s head coach:

Not underestimating the Bobcats​

Hailing from the Mid-American Conference, Ohio enters 2024 coming off back-to-back 10-win seasons. Additionally, the Bobcats have won two straight bowl games, while the Orange haven’t recorded a bowl victory since 2018. Because of its recent success, Brown views Ohio as a better team than SU heading into Saturday’s matchup.

“I would never say we could underestimate them because they have two 10-win seasons and I don’t think we did,” Brown said. “So, in my eyes, they’re a better football team than we are when you go back to what’s been done.”

Brown noted he thinks Ohio has an “amazing” staff. The 41-year-old newly-hired SU head coach noted that Bobcats head coach Tim Albin has been coaching in college football since Brown was just 7.

Additionally, Brown said Ohio’s offensive line stood out on film and its dual-threat quarterback, Parker Navarro, “can play.” On the defensive side of the ball, the Bobcats’ secondary has caught the former Georgia defensive backs coach’s eye.

“I think we have a good team coming in the house,” Brown said of Ohio. “They’re known for taking out Power Four schools.”

The wide receiver room​

One of SU’s most revamped position groups is its wide receivers. Two of its three leading receivers from 2023, Damien Alford and Donovan Brown, are not with the program this year. But, with the additions of Zeed Haynes, Jackson Meeks and Justus Ross-Simmons from the transfer portal along with Trebor Peña returning from a season-ending injury, the group is substantially improved.

Even with a bevy of changes from last year, Umari Hatcher — whose 482 receiving yards placed second among SU players in 2023 — earned one of the three spots atop Syracuse’s first depth chart alongside Haynes and Peña.

“He talked about his ending goal in football was to play in the National Football League and be a good player there,” Brown said of Hatcher. “I asked, ‘Do you wanna go (to the NFL)? Because if you just wanna go to the NFL, you’re talented enough to do that. Do you wanna go and play and be apart of it?’

“We talked about his weight, he had to gain more weight, he needed to be at least 185 pounds. He needed to get physical in the run game. And he needed to make difficult catches … He answered the bell, he did everything he was asked to do.”

Ross-Simmons, who caught 45 passes for 724 yards and three touchdowns at Colorado State last year, wasn’t listed on the depth chart. The wide receiver has been battling a hamstring injury throughout training camp. Still, Brown is hopeful the 6-foot-3 Rochester native will play against the Bobcats.

“He’s had just a bum summer, just hasn’t been able to stay completely healthy,” Brown said of Ross-Simmons. “We saw it before we started camp and then he had a bad hamstring pull. But he’s working to get back, he’s almost back completely.”

Headset communication​

When asked which coaches would wear a headset and be in McCord’s ear during games, Brown said offensive coordinator Jeff Nixon and quarterbacks coach Nunzio Campanile will communicate with SU’s quarterback. One of college football’s newest rules for 2024 is having the option to use coach-to-player communications through the helmet to one player on the field.

Brown smiled when saying McCord — who threw for 3,170 yards and 24 touchdowns at Ohio State last season — doesn’t need anyone in his ear, noting he’s like a coach on the field. But with the new rules in place, Brown said Nixon and Campanile will offer proper guidance to McCord amid games.
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Syracuse Football Preview: Head Coach (waer.org; Evans)

Syracuse Football is merely days away from beginning its 123rd season in program history. However, the 2024 campaign is bringing a little more excitement to central New York than just any other first week’s kickoff. The reason why is obvious. There’s a new sheriff in town.

Fran Brown is a fighter without fear. Coming from humble beginnings in Camden, New Jersey, he simply had no choice. After his playing career (which ended with a professional stint in Cincinnati) Brown spent roughly 15 years climbing the coaching ranks through five different high school/collegiate stops before becoming the 31st head coach in Syracuse program history. Most recently, he coached the defensive backs at the University of Georgia.

Brown wasted no time outlining what he desires from his players. In his introductory press conference last December, Brown highlighted, “detailed, accountable, relentless, and tough,” as characteristics he expects his team to display.

In his first off-season, Brown (known for his recruiting prowess) worked to fill his Syracuse roster with players whom he viewed as capable of fulfilling these traits. As a result, quarterback Kyle McCord, edge rusher Fadil Diggs, and wideout Yazeed Haynes headline an exciting first transfer class brought in by coach Fran.

“Playing for him…it’s fun. All the guys on the team love to go out and play for a coach they love,” McCord remarked. The new SU signal caller transferred in from Ohio State after last season. His relationship with the new coach being the preeminent reason why. Brown watched McCord play youth football near his hometown Camden, and the two developed a relationship over time.

“Relationships mean a lot to me,” was another core message that Brown relayed at that intro press meeting.

Brown has taken his own unique approach to training camp as well, having his players live in the dorms for its duration.

“Just trying to allow us to truly become more together as a family,” was the coach’s reasoning for this old school procedure.

Brown is changing things up for a program that hired him to do just that. Over the last eight years under former head coach Dino Babers, the Orange enjoyed only two winning seasons and just one bowl game victory. Coach Fran aims to raise the standard.

There is no doubt that Fran Brown is inducing plenty of eager anticipation around Syracuse. On Saturday, Brown’s first SU squad makes its debut in front of the Cuse’ faithful against Ohio University. It’s the start of a new era. One that Syracuse fans hope bears more fruit than the last. When asked if nerves are ever present leading into his new team’s first fight, the Camden-bred Brown responded somewhat ironically.

“I’m antsy about it everyday.”

Syracuse and Ohio kickoff at 3:30 on Saturday. Listen to every Orange football contest on 88.3 FM and waer.org.

Syracuse Football Depth Chart: Three Questions (orangefizz.net; Aitken)

Syracuse football just released its first depth chart of the season, and therefore, the first depth chart of the Fran Brown era. There were a lot of players that slotted in exactly where we expected them, but still some surprises ahead of SU’s season-opener against Ohio on Saturday.

Where’s Justus Ross Simmons?

Justus Ross-Simmons, a veteran wide receiver transfer from Colorado State, has the talent to appear on the depth chart, or even start for Syracuse football. However, his name isn’t one of the three wide receivers listed. That isn’t because of talent, though. It’s because of health. Ross-Simmons is recovering from a pulled hamstring, which means his availability for this weekend is shaky.

“He’s working. We gotta see what he does,” head coach Fran Brown said. “He just hasn’t been able to get completely healthy. I think he’ll be able to play this week. I’m hopeful, but I’m not completely sure.”

With an open spot for a wide receiver on the depth chart, freshman Emmanuel Ross has stepped up and taken position on the second line.
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Syracuse Football: The buzz is palpable. Anticipation brews. The wait is almost over. (itlh; Adler)

In early December of last year, SU Athletics officially introduced former Georgia defensive backs coach Fran Brown, an ace recruiter who hails from New Jersey, as the next head coach of Syracuse football, replacing former boss Dino Babers.

It's true that, under Babers, a really good guy I might add, the Orange had a 10-win season and reached a couple of bowl games. Yet ever since the 'Cuse left the Big East Conference for the Atlantic Coast Conference in the 2013-14 sports seasons, Syracuse football hasn't proven all that relevant in the ACC or on a national scale.

Brown, a first-year and a first-time head coach, wants to change all of that. Since taking over on the Hill, he's assembled a top-flight staff. His 2024 roster includes multiple key returnees from a season ago, and the Orange's 2024 recruiting class features numerous talented college transfers and high school seniors.

This Saturday, Syracuse football will take the field for the first time in the 2024 season, when the 'Cuse will host non-conference foe Ohio at the JMA Wireless Dome.

Simply put, following off-season workouts and then preseason training camp, it's go time.

The Orange fan base is pumped for the upcoming Syracuse football campaign.

I attended Syracuse University as a student from 1996 to 2000. I've closely followed Orange sports since the 1980s, and I've covered 'Cuse teams for Inside The Loud House dating back to 2016.
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Bishop McDevitt freshman Jerome Larue Jr. earns second Division I football offer (pennlivce.com; Sostek)

Jerome Larue Jr. has been generating college interest before even taking the field for Bishop McDevitt.

And now, after one game played, the freshman Crusader has earned another college opportunity.

The 5-foot-9, 165-pound running back picked up his second college football offer, with Syracuse University now vying for Larue’s services.

“Blessed to receive an offer from Syracuse University. Thanks @CoachWeachter @McD_athletics @dannylan51 @CuseFootball @CoachNixon_Cuse @EdOBrienCFB @kolby_crawford @On3Recruits @PaFootballNews @PennLive @dan_sostek,” Larue Jr tweeted.

Syracuse joins Virginia Tech in offering the speedy running back.

Larue Jr. carried the ball seven times for 31 yards in a 45-15 win over Mount St. Joseph on Saturday in the York Rose Bowl.

The back has been timed at a 4.41 40-yard dash, and is expected to play behind back Naz Jones-Davis and Maurice Barnes for the Crusaders this fall.

Keeping Up With The 315 8-26-24 (ESPN; radio; the 315)

Game week people! Brian begins a football-heavy show by reacting to the Week 1 depth chart, which dropped today. He also plays back some of the biggest moments from Fran Brown’s first game week press conference. Lastly, Tim joins with some thoughts on what stood out from the SU Week 1 depth chart.

Adam Terry "The 315" 8-26-24 (ESPN; radio; the 315)

Syracuse radio color analyst Adam Terry joins Brian as he will every single Monday this season to preview the Week 1 matchup, discuss his expectations for the season, what has stood out about Fran Brown so far and much more.

30 Minutes in Orange Nation 8-26-24 (ESPN; radio; Orange Nation)

Steve Infanti and Paulie Scibilia revisit the idea that Syracuse has an easy schedule after Georgia Tech’s win over FSU before Jordan joins the guys with some other college football talking points from the weekend.

Syracuse football: opening two weeks offer ACC a chance to change narrative (TNIAAM; Wall)

The Syracuse Orange aren’t being talked about as College Football Playoff contenders. Some of that is expectations for the Orange, but some of that is the national media’s perception of the ACC.

A lot of people assume that the ACC is going to land one team in the first CFP. Florida State losing to Georgia Tech has led to more dismissal of the ACC’s hopes. Sure it’s ridiculous to say that, but that’s the state of things.

People will point to Clemson vs Georgia as the biggest opportunity for the ACC to make a statement and while a Tigers win would be big, it goes beyond one game. Miami (vs Florida) and Virginia Tech (vs Vanderbilt) play road games at SEC schools. North Carolina heads to Minnesota and Stanford hosts TCU in other P4 match-ups. Next week NC State hosts Tennessee in another top-25 ACC-SEC matchup.

Clemson winning would make the biggest splash, but there are long-term benefits for the ACC should the others take care of business. Florida has the toughest schedule in the nation, which means a Miami win on the road could become very valuable for not only the Canes but the rest of the league. Tennessee has CFP aspirations as well and if NC State can knock off an SEC contender that raises the profile of the entire league.

Two games against top 25 SEC opponents are opportunities for the ACC. We don’t know how they CFP committee will evaluate at-large teams, but if college basketball is any indicator then strength of schedule will certainly be a strong consideration.
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Syracuse football: what’s college football saying about the Orange after Week 0 (TNIAAM; Wall)

Each week, we’ll take a look at what other college football media sites are saying about the Syracuse Orange.

ESPN

In this week’s SP+ rankings Syracuse starts the year in the 67th spot with the offense 74rd 74th while the defense ranks 60th. The Orange are ranked between Pittsburgh and Purdue. Ohio is ranked 107th with their offense 133rd and defense 37th.

The Football Power Index has Syracuse in 70th between Tulane and Wake Forest. FPI predicts the Orange for 5.7 wins and gives them a 52.7 % chance of making a bowl game. Ohio is ranked 113th.

Both Kyle McCord and Fadil Diggs are listed on ESPN’s Top 100 Newcomers list.

ESPN has Syracuse projected for either the Gasparilla Bowl (vs. South Carolina) or Armed Forces Bowl (vs. Tulane).

CBS Sports

In the CBS Sports power rankings Syracuse is 68th between BYU and Miami (Ohio). The Ohio Bobcats are 90th.

The Athletic

The Orange starts the season 58th in The Athletic’s Top 131 Power Rankings placing them in between Texas State and Mississippi State. Ohio starts the year in 98th.

AP and Coaches Poll

Both Syracuse and Ohio received one vote in the Coaches Preseason Poll

ACC Week Zero Scores

Georgia Tech 24 Florida State 21

SMU 29 Nevada 24

ACC Week One Schedule

Western Carolina vs NC State

North Carolina A&T vs Wake Forest

North Carolina vs Minnesota

Elon vs Duke

TCU vs Stanford

Clemson vs Georgia

Kent State vs Pitt

Virginia Tech vs Vanderbilt

Austin Peay vs Louisville

Ohio vs Syracuse

Miami vs Florida

UC Davis vs California
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Syracuse football Week 1 depth chart: What percentage of new faces earned spots? (analysis) (PS; $; Leiker)

Syracuse football’s Week 1 depth chart didn’t really feature any true surprises for those who followed fall camp closely.

Wide receiver Justus Ross-Simmons was left off as he continues rehabbing a minor injury. Michael Johnson Jr. and Carlos Del Rio-Wilson are listed with an “or” at backup quarterback as they continue their battle. Notre Dame transfer Clarence Lewis earned a spot at corner, as did Buffalo transfer Devin Grant, who moved over from safety.

What the depth chart did feature a lot of, though, is true freshmen.

Nine members of the Class of 2024 earned spots on Syracuse’s season-opening depth chart.

One could even get a starting nod on defense Saturday: Marcellus Barnes Jr., who’s listed with an “or” with Grant for a starting CB spot.

Players listed with an “or” are listed in numerical order by jersey number. Whether the first “or” is listed ahead of the second name on the chart or third indicates whether players are vying for first string or second string.

Freshmen expected to feature based on Syracuse.com’s projected depth chart were Barnes, Yasin Willis (No. 2 running back), Maraad Watson (No. 1 defensive tackle) and Braheem Long Jr. (No. 2 strong safety).

Unexpected appearances included Emanuel Ross (No. 2 slot receiver), Jahide Lesaine Jr. and KingJoseph Edwards (No. 1 and edge rushers), Ibn McDaniels (No. 2 cornerback) and Malachi James (No. 1 kick returner).

James was a surprise addition on National Signing Day who was originally unrated by the major recruiting services.

He is the New Jersey record holder in the 100-meter dash with a time of 10.18 seconds. Syracuse boasted on social media during fall camp that he hit 23.6 miles per hour.

“You don’t wanna have those guys just sitting around. Why not use them?” Brown said of James and Ros specifically. “It takes some off of the other guys when you can put those guys in.”

The inclusion of so many true freshmen did not necessarily push out returning players or transfer veterans, as all are listed with an “or” next to their name indicating split reps.

For example, Watson is listed with an “or” between Alabama transfer Isaiah Hastings and returner Kevin Jobity Jr. for defensive tackle.

Both defensive tackle spots feature three players apiece.

During his press conference Monday, SU coach Fran Brown said he anticipated that being the case much of the season, as the position requires one of the highest levels of physicality.

“If we’re gonna dominate on defense, I think the defensive line, you have to be able to rotate,” Brown said. “Those guys all have to be able to play. There’s a certain number (reps) that each guy you feel needs to be able to play, so you’re hoping they can all reach that number.”

Of the nine freshmen listed, Barnes should see the most playing time. He was seen often with the first-string defense and in different combinations with Grant, Lewis and Jayden Bellamy.

The defensive linemen could feature often but not for extended reps, giving breathers to the other more veteran players their listed alongside or coming in on special packages like at goal line.
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The Juice Online - Special Teams — 2024 Syracuse Football preview (r1vals.com; Stechschulte)

Trebor Pena was named to the watch list for the Paul Hornung Award, which is bestowed upon the most versatile player in major college football. Part of the reason for that is his ability to contribute in the return game.

Pena was slotted as the punt returner for the Orange last year, but only returned a pair before injury ended his season, bringing his career total to 40 punt returns for an 8.1-yard average. The wide receiver has also returned 36 kickoffs in his career for a 27.0-yard average with a touchdown against North Carolina State as a freshman.

Darrell Gill Jr. handled the most kickoff returns on the team last year, handling a dozen kicks and posting a 21.8-yard mark. LeQuint Allen was involved as an occasional punt returner last season, as well, returning five punts, including a 53-yard return against Georgia Tech.

Brady Denaburg took over the placekicking responsibilities last season to mixed results. While he missed just one of 37 extra point attempts, Denaburg had some ups and downs on field goals. The junior was 10-of-16 overall, but just 4-of-10 on kicks of 37 yards or longer and 1-of-4 on attempts longer than 44 yards. His issues with field goals did not carry over to his kickoff work, though, as Denaburg had an over 90 percent touchback rate.

Jack Stonehouse transferred into the Syracuse program for his redshirt sophomore campaign after spending two seasons with Missouri. That move provided immediate dividends, as Stonehouse was honored as Third Team All-ACC after recording the second-highest punting average in school history.

The former Tiger averaged just over 44.6 yards on his 62 punts and had 18 kicks inside the opponents’ 20-yard-line, as well as forced 24 fair catches.

Syracuse Football: Ohio at 'Cuse prediction, odds, spread and over/under in week one (itlh; Adler)

The wait is finally over, Syracuse football fans.

The Orange, under first-year head coach Fran Brown, will commence its much-anticipated 2024 season this Saturday afternoon, when the 'Cuse welcomes Mid-American Conference ("MAC") member Ohio to the Hill in a non-conference battle.

The Orange's 2024 roster is filled with key returnees on both sides of the field, along with talented college transfers and incoming freshmen from the high school level. Syracuse football, which has gone a combined 13-13 over the past two terms, seeks its third straight post-season bowl game.

Beyond that, though, what Brown and his top-flight staff are hoping to do is reverse course from the past two campaigns, when the 'Cuse raced out to strong starts but then stumbled down the stretch.

On paper, the Syracuse football 2024 docket, both in the non-conference and the Atlantic Coast Conference calendars, appears manageable. That being said, many ACC and national pundits weren't super high on the Orange ahead of 2024 getting underway.

Naturally, that's why the games are played on the field, and the 'Cuse fanbase undeniably is excited about the beginning of the Fran Brown era in Central New York.

Ohio at Syracuse football odds, spread and total

When I wrote this article, FanDuel had the Orange as a 17.5-point betting favorite at home against the Bobcats, with the over/under set at 47.5 points.

Ohio at Syracuse football how to watch

Date: Saturday, Aug. 31
Game Time: 3:30 pm EST
Venue: JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, N.Y.
TV/Streaming: ACC Network and fuboTV
Ohio's record: 0-0
Syracuse's record: 0-0
Syracuse’s full 2024 schedule: Click here
...

https://www.localsyr.com/video/su-head-football-coach-fran-brown-press-conference/9985905/ (ocalsyr.com; video; Channel 9)

SU head football coach Fran Brown press conference

Season 3 Offseason | NCAA Football 06 Syracuse Orange Dynasty | S3:E14 (youtube; sumulation; Playbook Gamer)

Season 3 Offseason | NCAA Football 06 Syracuse Orange Dynasty | S3:E14

2024 Ohio Football Weekly Press Conference 8/26

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OhioBobcatsThe OhioBobcatTV channel is your home for all things Ohio BobcatsFor all things Ohio Bobcats, visit our ...

youtu.be

Ohio Football vs. Syracuse | Tim Albin Weekly Press Conference - Ohio University (ohiobobcats.com)

Fourth-year head coach Tim Albin met with media today (Aug. 26) as the Bobcats (0-0) prepare to open the 2024 season against the Syracuse Orange (0-0) on Saturday, Aug. 31. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, N.Y. . and can be seen on ACCN. The game can also be heard on the Ohio Sports Network from Learfield, presented by Holzer Health System.

AmeriCU Fran Brown Show Debuts Thursday - Syracuse University Athletics (cuse.com)

The AmeriCU Fran Brown Show will debut on Thursday, August 29 at 7 p.m., live from Heritage Hill and broadcast statewide on the Syracuse Sports Network from Learfield.

Brown, who took the helm as Syracuse football's head coach, will join Voice of the Orange Matt Park during each game week this fall to provide insight on the Orange and their upcoming matchup.

You can catch the show on TK99/105 locally, Cuse.com and the 'Cuse App. Fans are invited to participate in the show by calling 888-7Go-Cuse or 424-8599 or on twitter (@CuseLearfield) with the hashtag #AskFran.

Coach Fran will bring another member of the coaching staff on as a guest each week to give fans a look at the Orange coaching staff and individual position groups.

Show Dates:

GAME WEEK	SHOW DATE
Ohio (8/31)	Thursday, Aug. 29
Georgia Tech (9/7)	Thursday, Sept. 5
Stanford (9/20)	Wednesday, Sept. 18
Holy Cross (9/27)	Thursday, Sept. 26
UNLV (10/4)	Tuesday, Oct. 1
NC State (10/12)	Thursday, Oct. 10
Pitt (10/22)	Tuesday, Oct. 22
Virginia Tech (11/2)	Thursday, Oct. 31
Boston College (11/9)	Thursday, Nov. 7
Cal (11/16)	Wednesday, Nov. 13
UConn (11/23)	Wednesday, Nov. 20
Miami (11/30	Tuesday, Nov. 26

Syracuse opens the 2024 season at home vs. Ohio on August 31. Fans can get their tickets to be part of the action at Cuse.com/Tickets for one of the most anticipated Syracuse football seasons in recent memory.

Syracuse Football on Instagram: "tune in ️ ️ Cuse.com/tickets"

614 likes, 3 comments - cusefootball on August 26, 2024: "tune in ️ ️ Cuse.com/tickets".

www.instagram.com

TikTok - Make Your Day

ACC News

ACC fans can laugh at Florida State, but they'll be fine | North Carolina wants 2 QBs | OG247 (youtube; podcast; Ovies & Giglio)

Joe Ovies and Joe Giglio start off with a difference of opinion on how to process Florida State's Week 0 loss to Georgia Tech in Ireland. Daily Tar Heel and N&O intern Shelby Swanson dropped by the studio to discuss yet another NC State championship before getting into North Carolina's QB gameplan head of their opener against Minnesota. In the Lightning Round, they discuss the Carolina Panthers finally notching a preseason win.

5 Stars Only. Positive Vibes Only.

Friedlander: Week 1 in the ACC is here, so here’s what I’ll be thinking about all week (saturdaydownsouth.com; Friedlander)

The purpose of an appetizer, as its name suggests, is to stimulate the appetite as a preview for the main course to come.

In that case, then Georgia Tech-Florida State did its job.

As if we weren’t already jacked up for the return of college football, the classic down-to-the-wire battle between the Yellow Jackets and Seminoles in Dublin, Ireland last Saturday served as the perfect intro for the season’s actual opening weekend.

It starts with 3 games Thursday and runs all the way through Labor Day Monday. And while all eyes will be on the epic clash of titans between Clemson and Georgia on Saturday, it’s hardly the only tasty entree on the menu.

My tummy is already rumbling in anticipation of the feast, including these ACC things I’ll be thinking about all week:

What are the chances either Georgia Tech or Florida State suffer an Irish hangover?

Week 0 was fun.

At least it was for Georgia Tech and those of us desperate for a football fix.

But like most overindulges, there’s a price to pay in the morning. And jetlag from the long flight home from Ireland isn’t the only challenge facing the Yellow Jackets and Seminoles.

Because of the way the game played out, with Tech pulling off a 24-21 upset, the emotional recovery for both teams might be more of an issue than the physical bounce-back of a quick turnaround.

The Yellow Jackets will have to come down quickly from the high of upsetting a top-10 opponent and avoid becoming an upset victim themselves. Against Georgia State, a crosstown rival who would love nothing better than to proclaim superiority over their higher-profile Atlanta neighbor.

The Seminoles’ task is even more complicated. Not only will they be under pressure to avoid an 0-2 start in the ACC that would make a return to the conference championship game unlikely – against a Boston College team that gave them a major scare last season – but Mike Norvell and his staff don’t have long to make needed adjustments to their offensive and defensive lines.

At least they’ll have 2 extra days to prepare, with the game not scheduled until Labor Day Monday.

Here’s your chance to force Finebaum to say something nice about you, ACC

The SEC’s loudest and most influential mouthpiece didn’t waste any time piling on FSU after Saturday’s loss, suggesting that the Seminoles will have to file a lawsuit to get into this year’s College Football Playoff.

So you know he’s licking his chops in anticipation of even more ACC bashing with 2 high-profile games against SEC teams on the Week 1 schedule. Especially the matchup between a Miami team being hyped as a Playoff contender against a Florida squad just trying not to get its coach fired. The other game is a Saturday afternoon showdown between Clemson and Georgia in Atlanta. Virginia Tech is playing at Vanderbilt in a 3rd ACC-SEC clash.
...

Bourbon, meet college football. Evan Williams lands partnership as 'Game Day's #1 Pour' (C-J; Reed)

Bourbon, meet college football.

Evan Williams Bourbon will become one of the first bourbons to partner with a handful of the country's top college athletic programs, including the University of Florida, Syracuse University, TCU, Ohio State University, and University of Alabama as "Game Day's #1 Pour."

Evan Williams Bourbon announced the partnership with Learfield, the media and technology company with ties to over 1,200 of the nation’s top collegiate properties, for a multiple-year dealbeginning this August.

“From pre-game rituals to post-win celebrations, Evan Williams is the bourbon that scores with college sports fans and alumni,” Molly Vincent, senior manager of the Evan Williams Brand, said in a news release. “We’re thrilled to bring Evan Williams together with this very loyal and enthusiastic audience who appreciates the excitement of a great play as much as a great pour and knows how to celebrate responsibly."

Look for in-stadium signage, branded bar spaces, and tailgate activations at five select schools beginning with the 2024 NCAA football season.

The partnership also marks the debut of Evan Williams' national college sports platform, "Evan Williams Bourbon Nation," which rolls out this spring and will target all collegiate sports fans, with an emphasis on football and basketball.

"By integrating Evan Williams into the game day experience, we aim to enhance how fans connect with their favorite teams," Shawn Hegan, executive vice president of Global Partnerships at Learfield, said in a release. "We're not just bringing a great bourbon to the fans — we're creating new ways for people to enjoy and celebrate their passion for college sports. We're looking forward to building and expanding this partnership for years to come."

Clemson, Miami lead the ACC Power Rankings- week one (rubbingtherock.com; Farmer)

ACC football officially kicked off last Saturday, with Florida State taking on Georgia Tech and SMU playing Nevada. After the Seminoles lost, it's left the path to the ACC title wide open. However, there are only a few with a real shot at it.

Clemson is the obvious first choice. Its talent outweighs every other team in the conference, and it returns most of its offense. The other teams in the running are Miami, NC State, Louisville, and Florida State. If it weren't for the FSU's loss on Saturday, it would've been No. 1, but right now, the Seminoles don't look like a top-10 team.

A few more are looking in from the outside. Virginia Tech is a team that returns more production than any team in the ACC. If the Hookies can polish their offense and reproduce what they did on defense last season, they could be a dark horse candidate. North Carolina and Georgia Tech, after the Yellow Jackets knocked off the FSU, could make a decent run, too.

Here are the ACC Power Rankings for week one:

Week one ACC Power Rankings​

Rank	Team
1	Clemson
2	Miami
3	NC State
4	Louisville
5	Florida State
6	Virginia Tech
7	North Carolina
8	Georgia Tech
9	SMU
10	Duke
11	California
12	Syracuse
13	Virginia
14	Boston College
15	Pittsburgh
16	Wake Forest
17	Stanford

The bottom of the league is tough to pin down because — coming into the season — SMU looked like a middle-of-the-road team. On the other hand, the Mustangs' performance on Saturday left much to be desired, consistently shooting themselves in the foot with penalties. But it's the first game of the season, and they pulled out the win, so they'll stay in the middle for now.



Another ACC newcomer is in the basement to start the season. The transfer portal hasn't been kind to the west coast team. Because of the high-grade requirements, they've struggled to replace talent jumping into the portal with transfers. The rest of the bottom five teams could fluctuate throughout the season.

The ACC Is In Chaos: How Miami And Clemson Benefit From Georgia Tech Upsetting Florida State (youtube; podcast; College Football with Sam)

Georgia Tech upset Florida State in Week 0, and now the ACC is in complete chaos as its reigning champion and preseason favorite has gone down to a major underdog. Florida State looks much more vulnerable than I expected, and this benefits two of the Seminoles' opponents, Clemson and Miami, who want to take control of the conference. The Miami Hurricanes and Clemson Tigers benefit from the chaos because Dabo Swinney and Mario Cristobal return talented rosters who are physical in the trenches and strong on defense. Where these two programs differ is Clemson will have to rely on their defense and offensive line to win games, but Miami is much more flexible with an elite offensive line and also elite skill position players such as Cameron Ward, Damien Martinez, Xavier Restrepo, and Sam Brown. We talk about all of this and more in this episode of College Football with Sam.

JHowell's Picks 2024 Week 1 (RX; HM)

Syracuse favored by half a point? It would appear that the dog has rabies...

JHowell's Picks 2024 Week 1

JHowell.net has updated projections for Week #1 of the 2024 college football season. Below are JHowell's ACC football game projections through the games of 9-2-24; let's see if his computer can pick the "dogs"...

Thursday, August 29, 2024​

#52-Minnesota (-0.5) vs. #38-North Carolina (TP=55 Odds=.506)

Friday, August 30, 2024​

#37-Texas Christian (-11.5) @ #107-Stanford (TP=58 Odds=.662)

Saturday, August 31, 2024​

#1-Georgia (-19) vs. #10-Clemson (TP=53 Odds=.784) @ Atlanta, GA
#7-Notre Dame (-8) @ #29-Texas A&M (TP=53 Odds=.624)
#44-Florida (-4) vs. #50-Miami (Florida) (TP=55 Odds=.559)
#53-Georgia Tech (-8) vs. #79-Georgia State (TP=56 Odds=.618)
#73-Pittsburgh (-16.5) vs. #126-Kent State (TP=53 Odds=.746)
#76-Virginia Tech (-6.5) @ #119-Vanderbilt (TP=54 Odds=.605)
#80-Syracuse (-0.5) vs. #70-Ohio (TP=50 Odds=.504)

Monday, September 2, 2024​

#18-Florida State (-14.5) vs. #84-Boston College (TP=52 Odds=.723)

COMMENTS:​

• ACC Underdogs, more than 14: Clemson (to UGA), BC (to FSU)
• ACC Underdogs, 4 to 14: Stanford (to TCU), Miami (to Florida)
• Too Close to Call: UNC (vs Minnesota), Syracuse (vs Ohio)
• ACC Favorites, 4 to 14: Notre Dame (over Texas A&M), GT (over GA State), VT (over Vandy)
• ACC Favorites, more than 14: Pitt (over Kent St), FSU (over BC)

I expected GT/FSU to be close, and it was (winning field goal as time expired). I think Clemson/UGA will be closer than predicted, too - and I do not expect Stanford to lose to TCU at home by 11.5! Finally, this spread is an insult to Syracuse!
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GUEST ARTICLE: The Big 12 Survival Strategy (RX; HM)

GUEST ARTICLE: "The Big 12 Survival Strategy" by Random Asian Guy

The Big 12 Survival Strategy​

This is my third and probably last article of the year. I have previously argued that ESPN would move some Big 12 schools to the ACC and that the ACC would have upper hand over the B12.
My first article was blatantly copied by someone on X [link], and then a couple of YouTubers made videos based on that copied post.

SOURCE: ACC 'Likely' to Steal Expansion Big 12 Schools in Realignment Via Move from ESPN | TCU, Utah

and

ACC Could STEAL Teams From The Big 12 Via ESPN Maneuver? | Non-Conference Schedule | Rueben Bain

It seems many more people read or heard what I wrote than I originally thought. However, most people just don’t believe a random blog post by a random asian guy.

So let me present some of my track record. I have posted extensively on CSNBBS. I didn’t get everything right, but I am proud of my record.

Here are some significant examples:

ACC Expansion in 2023​

Some people claimed that nobody expected the ACC to expand in 2023, which is simply not true. Many ACC fans actively discussed this possibility on CSNBBS. See the thread "Is the expansion still an option for the ACC", which started in December 2022 and is currently 146 pages long.
On April 21, 2023, based on Peter Thamel’s article, I wrote:

4) But which schools should the ACC go after? Thamel kindly listed the targets: UO, UW, Stanford and Cal first and ASU and Colorado second.
5) But how much the ACC would get? Well, it's not going to be a financial bonanza. ESPN is stingy and Thamel only said "pro rata". But the idea is that if the ACC adds schools in large states like California, the ACCN money would increase enough. Note Utah is not listed most likely because it's not located in a very populous state (although I think ESPN would still pay for Utah). SMU would be an opposite case. Not a strong brand in a very populous state. Also note that Thamel listed TCU and Cincy. So I'm pretty sure ESPN would have paid at least pro rata (plus ACCN increase) if the ACC had added TCU and Cincy in 2021.

...

ACC football best fit for every team in conference realignment in the Big Ten and SEC (yahoo.com,; Turri)

College football's conference realignment is one of the most interesting conversations in sports right now as changes happen fast, and more changes are expected to come sooner rather than later.

Highlighted when the Florida State Seminoles sued the ACC, the march toward realignment was underscored when the Clemson Tigers followed suit. The ACC's top two programs in lawsuits with the conference could be very telling of the direction the ACC is going. There are no guarantees, but it seems the conference is getting closer and closer to suffering from realignment.

With this in mind, we looked at every college football program in the ACC and where (with a bit of if) they would end up between the Big Ten and the SEC.

Updated 8/26

Clemson Tigers​

Best fit: SEC

If conference realignment took the ACC by storm, there's no doubt the Tigers would end up in the SEC. It's a perfect fit for both Clemson and the SEC. Each would increase in value with the addition of the Tigers to the conference. Clemson also has a long history with multiple SEC programs, meaning built-in rivalries are ready to go.

Florida State Seminoles​

Best fit: SEC

If you couldn't tell, the Seminoles want out of the ACC. Like Clemson, the Seminoles are an ideal fit for the SEC. Another top-tie program in the south that can elevate the prestige of the conference and itself. It makes sense.

Miami Hurricanes​

Best fit: Big Ten

If conference realignment does hit the ACC hard, something has to give. The Hurricanes are another program that could fit right into the SEC, but there are only so many teams that can join a conference. I believe Miami would slip into the Big Ten, which would be an awesome snag for the conference.

North Carolina Tar Heels​

Best fit: SEC

Though it may not seem so, the Tar Heels are one of the top teams conferences will pursue if the ACC goes under. The basketball program is as good as it comes, and the football program has a great deal of potential. The SEC could tap into that football potential.

Duke Blue Devils​

Best fit: Big Ten

It kills me to say, but the Duke-North Carolina rivalry would be separated by conference. I don't see a world where the Blue Devils end up in the SEC, but I could see the Big Ten jumping all over Duke, which has a basketball program that good.

NC State Wolfpack​

Best fit: Big Ten

I'm not completely sure why, but the Wolfpack screams Big Ten to me. If UNC is heading to the SEC, that would leave the Wolfpack heading to the Big Ten. It feels like a strong fit as this program is slowly on the rise and fits the mold of Big Ten football pretty dang well.

Louisville Cardinals​

Best fit: SEC

Similar to how I feel about NC State, Louisville screams SEC for me. It is an on-the-rise program, and the SEC makes sense; it would elevate the program drastically. Recruiting would be stellar for the Cardinals in the SEC with Jeff Brohm at the helm.

Pittsburgh Panthers​

Best fit: Big Ten

I've seen people throw the Panthers and the SEC around, but I disagree strongly. From a feel perspective, Pitt feels like a Big Ten team. From a location perspective, they're in a perfect location to join the conference. Much of the younger crowd doesn't know, but this program is historic, and I believe the history of this program and the Big Ten go hand in hand.

Virginia Tech Hokies​

Best fit: SEC

Assessing this one, I leaned more to the middle than I expected. The Big Ten makes more sense than I thought, but I'm going with the SEC for the Hokies. A hard team to assess in general. I believe the program is better than many people act, but it is also in the dumps right now.

Syracuse Orange​

Best fit: Big Ten

This is a no-brainer. Syracuse and the Big Ten would be a dream fit for me. I love Syracuse in the ACC, but getting Orange football in the Big Ten could help recruiting tremendously. Also, Syracuse basketball in the Big Ten would be wild.
...

https://medium.com/@EricLMitchell/a...-could-shake-up-college-football-fa0b19fb2338 (medium.com; Mitchell)
Mitchell apparently wrote this before the GT-FSU game

The ACC is set for another wild ride in 2024. Despite all the chatter about realignment and potential exits, the conference has held it together — at least for now. The usual heavyweights, Clemson and Florida State, are back at the top, but this season brings plenty of fresh faces and new challenges. With a bigger College Football Playoff field up for grabs, the ACC has a golden opportunity to make some noise. Let’s see who’s going to rise and who might crumble under the pressure.

The Usual Suspects: Clemson and Florida State

If you’re looking for a safe bet in the ACC, Clemson and Florida State are your teams. They’ve been the heavyweights of the conference for years, and 2024 doesn’t look much different. Both teams are loaded with talent and will start the season ranked in the AP Top 25. Clemson, however, might be a bit overrated this time around (more on that later).

Florida State, still fuming from last year’s playoff snub, enters the season with a chip the size of the Seminole Nation on its shoulder. Everyone at College GameDay picked them to win their opener against Georgia Tech in Dublin, but the Noles promptly showed why I consider them one of the most overrated teams in the Top 25. In a surprising upset, Georgia Tech edged out Florida State 24–21, proving that the Seminoles still have a lot to prove. Sure, they’ve got talent, but being hyped up every year only to fall short is starting to feel like a tradition in Tallahassee. They’re determined to make a statement, but whether they can live up to it remains to be seen.

New Faces, Same Powerhouses

The ACC may have added some new members, but the power dynamics haven’t shifted much. Miami and North Carolina State also cracked the preseason AP Top 25, and both teams have the potential to make noise this year. Miami, in particular, has a lot of buzz surrounding its program, with QB Cam Ward (a top transfer from Washington State) leading the charge.
...

Other

https://www.syracuse.com/statefair/...fair-todays-handpicked-menu-and-schedule.html (PS; Miller)

It was a good music day at the New York State Fair. Nearly 47,000 of the 69,394 fairgoers got to see Megan Moroney perform on Suburban Park on Monday night.

Before that, thousands filled Chevy Court to see Herman’s Hermits featuring Peter Noone. It was the biggest crowd at this stage so far this year.

Between that, we had CAIN playing a 6 p.m. and plenty of local musicians entertaining customers having dinner and drinks throughout the grounds.

Also on Monday, hundreds of law enforcement officer — active and retired — joined politicians and dignitaries Monday to honor fallen officers. After the ceremony, dozens filled the Colonnade where a vendor had set a table for two local officers who were killed in a shoutout in April.

Today is Fire, Rescue and EMS Day. Those workers can enter the gates for free. A ceremony is scheduled for 11 a.m. outside the Horticulture Building with a parade at 6 p.m.

Today’s Menu​

I’m at the Fair every day and night, and hey, a guy’s gotta eat (and drink). I write about food and drinks for syracuse.com and The Post-Standard, so I might as well as pass suggestions onto you while I’m working here. That said, I’m no expert. I rely on readers to tell me what’s good. If you find something that makes your tummy happy, text me at 315-382-1984 and I’ll give it a shot. I might join you for a meal or drink and pick up the tab.

Breakfast: You can’t eat all day if you don’t start in the morning, and part of my job is to eat all stinkin’ day. I was running a little behind yesterday, so I grabbed a slice of breakfast pizza at 8:30 a.m. at the Tiki Turtle stand in the Colonnade.



I know, State Fair pizza? Trust me, that’s what I thought, but the staff here urged me to buy a slice.

It was $6, much less than anything else I’ve shoved down my trap over the past week. Tiki has always makes a solid breakfast sandwich, but the pizza is more filling because it has lots of butter.

Lil, the pizza maker in this hut, lathers the top of the stretched-out dough with butter, covers it with beaten eggs and throws on whole-milk mozzarella cheese and bacon that has just come off the grill.

This isn’t a New York-style crust, nor should it be. It’s breakfast. This is one of the few times that the pizza crust should be treated like a side of toast. It was soft and cuddly, like the pillow I left at home to come out here and tell you what to eat.
...

This rendering shows the planned Onondaga County aquarium to be built at the Syracuse inner Harbor.Courtesy of Onondaga County

https://www.syracuse.com/news/2024/...uarium-as-cost-exceeds-85-million-target.html (PS; $; Knauss)

The Onondaga County aquarium is likely to cost more to build than the long-promised amount of $85 million, according to County Executive Ryan McMahon. County officials this week issued a revised request for construction bids in hopes of keeping the cost under control.

The initial general construction bid received in June was rejected because it would have raised the price-tag too high, McMahon said Monday.

Thanks in part to the do-over, the facility is now expected to open in the summer of 2026 rather than the fall of 2025. In the meantime, county officials hope to raise millions from private donors to offset some of the cost.

“The overall project will likely be higher than $85 million,” McMahon said in an email to syracuse.com. “How much is unknown at this time.”

McMahon proposed the aquarium in late 2021 as a good way to spend $85 million in surplus funds the county accumulated during the pandemic, after receiving hefty federal stimulus payments and unexpected sales tax boosts. The controversial project was approved by lawmakers 9-8.

McMahon said he has no plans “at this time” to ask the legislature for more money. But that’s an option in the future if it becomes necessary, he said.



“I reserve the right to ask for more capital dollars for new innovative efforts to support this transformational project,’’ McMahon said. “Speculating on hypotheticals at this point is … something I do not want to do.”
...

The bar at The Whiskey Coop, a 'Fried Chicken & Bourbon Joint' opening this week in Syracuse's Armory Square.Don Cazentre

https://www.syracuse.com/restaurant...mory-squares-newest-dining-spot-opens-up.html (PS; $; Cazentre)

Is it a restaurant with a whiskey selection, or a whiskey bar with food?

The answer at The Whiskey Coop, Armory Square’s newest dining destination, seems to be yes.

The Whiskey Coop opens officially for business at 4 p.m. today (Aug. 27) after a week or so of soft “friends and family service.” It’s located at 120 Walton St., occupying the space that was the longtime home of the Empire Brewing Co. brewpub.

It still resembles the old Empire in a way, with the basement-level location and the red brick walls interspersed by curving archways.

But now, the drink of choice is bourbon, not beer.

“I’ve always just really loved this space,” said owner Cheryl Chaif. “It just feels like a place for enjoying whiskey.”

Signs identify The Whiskey Coop as a “Fried Chicken & Bourbon Joint.” The Southern-influenced menu features salads, sandwiches and smashburgers, plus full plates like chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits and pan-seared catfish.

It has a decidedly fried fowl orientation. The menu includes Nashville Hot Chicken and no less than 10 other fried chicken variations.

That’s nothing compared to the whiskey selection: The Whiskey Coop is already stocked with about 100 different bourbons and other whiskeys, and Chaif hopes to build that up to at least 300. It includes whiskeys from America, Scotland, Ireland, Japan and more.
...

https://www.syracuse.com/restaurant...yorks-only-outback-steakhouse-has-closed.html (PS; Cazentre)

Central New York’s only Outback Steakhouse has closed.

The restaurant at 3946 Route 31 in Clay closed after business hours Sunday because its lease expired, company spokeswoman Elizabeth Daly said in an email to syracuse.com. It had been in business for 20 years.

“Some employees will have the opportunity to transfer to a sister restaurant and all will receive a severance package,” Daly said. “We truly appreciate the community’s support over the past 20 years.”

Outback has no other locations in Central New York, but the company’s location finder shows restaurants still operating in Vestal (near Binghamton), Rochester, Elmira, Buffalo and the Albany area. An Outback Steakhouse on Erie Boulevard in DeWitt closed in 2014.

Outback’s parent company, Bloomin’ Brands, also operates Carrabba’s Italian Grill and Bonefish Grill, both of which have locations in Fayetteville. The parent company is based in Tampa.



Outback restaurants play heavily on an Australian theme, and are as well known for their Blooming Onions as their steaks.

The location in Clay is set back from Route 31, and is in an area not far from Route 481 that is filled with other national chain restaurants. Those include a Longhorn Steakhouse, an Olive Garden and a Chick-Fil-A.

https://www.syracuse.com/entertainm...l-ny-for-hometown-shows-with-viral-comic.html (PS; $; Herbert)

Stand-up comedian Dan Frigolette is returning to Central New York for some hometown laughs.

The Baldwinsville native and Syracuse University alumnus will perform at the Kallet Theater in Pulaski on Sept. 12 and Sharkey’s Bar and Grill in Liverpool on Sept. 13. Both shows will begin at 8 p.m. and feature viral comic Napoleon Emill, whose “Florida Man” bits have nearly 100,000 views on Instagram.

Tickets for Sharkey’s are on sale for $18 in advance through syracusetix.com and $25 at the door. A special guest star is expected to be announced at a later date.

Tickets for the Kallet Theater are on sale via Eventbrite starting at $45. Additional fees may apply.

Frigolette and Emill will also perform private shows for residents at Red Mill Manor in Baldwinsville and Brookdale in Liverpool, giving back to the Senior Community.

Their Upstate New York tour will then take the pair to Black Sail Studios in Rotterdam on Sept. 14 and June Farms in West Lake on Sept. 15.

Frigolette, a 2001 graduate of Baldwinsville’s Charles W. Baker High School and a 2005 graduate of Syracuse University, currently lives in New Jersey. The comedian and actor has appeared on “Boardwalk Empire,” “The Bob and Tom Show,” “Younger,” “The Wendy Williams Show,” “Elimidate,” “Sexy Beasts,” and “Show Me a Hero,” plus released the comedy album “Naked and Amused: Comedy At A Nudist Colony.”

Emill, originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, is a rising star in the New York comedy scene. His credits include “That Damn Michael Che Show,” “Flatbush Misdemeanors,” Vice TV and Comedy Central.
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