The Syracuse Orange (12-6, 3-2) look to bounce back from the weekend loss when the Virginia Tech Hokies (14-5, 3-3) visit the JMA Dome. Tip-off is 9:00 on the ACC Network with Jay Alter and Randolph Childress are on the call. Here’s what we’re watching predicting:
Kevin: Virginia Tech 75, Syracuse 72
This is a game where the Orange won’t enjoy a big size advantage. It’s also likely that Toibu Lawal is going to be the one doing the most damage in the paint. When it’s a close game, I tend to give the edge to the team with the best player and that player is Neoklis Avdalas of Virginia Tech. Will the Orange go zone to try and slow down Avdalas’ ability to create for others? This is a make or break game for Syracuse so they need to find a way to get to Level 6.
Dom: Virginia Tech 81, Syracuse 70
Embracing my #DisloyalIdiot persona here, but I’m just really down after Syracuse couldn’t even take care of business against Boston College. Now, it has to face this Hokies team that doesn’t turn the ball over, attacks the rim relentlessly and puts up points in bunches. I’m just not seeing it. Virginia Tech should have a few more wins than it actually does, and the final score will reflect VT being the better team right now.
Szuba: Syracuse 76, Virginia Tech 73
As soon as you’re out, they pull you right back in. After Syracuse beats Virginia Tech late tonight you’ll be talking yourself into a win against Miami and how the Orange can still get this train back on track, which is dangerous for you.
As for the game? Neither team is a great rebounding team, yet I think Syracuse has the edge inside with height and athleticism. Virginia Tech should have the advantage from outside, but give me JJ Starling continuing his strong all-around play as an x-factor. The Orange get over the hump as Freeman bounces back in crunch time to close this one out down the stretch.
Max: Virginia Tech 77, Syracuse 72
It’s hard for me to envision a bounce-back performance after such a deflating loss in Chestnut Hill. The Orange basically need to go perfect the rest of the way to sniff March Madness, and the pressure will likely be too much in game one. While the Hokies still don’t have an ACC road win (0-2), their ball control and improved defense will have them leaving the Dome with a win.
Augie: Syracuse 68, Virginia Tech 66
Maybe I’m too optimistic, but this is the Cardiac ‘Cuse that we are talking about. And the 9 pm tip makes things weird as well. The energy in the Dome was great last Tuesday when Florida State came to town late at night last week, and I expect the energy to be the same tonight. Syracuse fans know how important these games are, and even after the heartbreak they experienced on Saturday, I expect them to show up. Donnie Freeman will not turn the ball over seven times in a game again and will make some big free throws late. I expect to see some positive play from Sadiq White tonight as well.
Sam: Syracuse 72, Virginia Tech 69
I don’t expect it to be comfortable, but at home, against a mediocre Virginia Tech team, Syracuse should be able to squeak one out. I’ll say that the Orange don’t repeatedly shoot themselves in the foot, make enough shots, and force enough difficult shots for the Hokies’ guards.
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