With just one day before Head Coach Fran Brown takes the mic at ACC Media Days, why not discuss some final thoughts and questions on Syracuse football?
Final Thoughts and Questions Before ACC Media Days
Quarterback Battle: Is there a winner?
The long battle that started in late April continues to roll on, and now with Rickie Collins Jr. at ACC Media Days, the battle hits a new high. The Orange have just under six weeks to decide their starter, kicking off the season on August 30th. It’s unlikely Coach Brown reveals his decision on Wednesday, but with Collins there, it could happen. There will definitely be some news on the battle and the position from both Coach Brown and Collins.
Growth and Development Inquiries
Three of Syracuse’s attendees are redshirt seniors, so it’s important to know about the young players who are back on campus developing. Expect to hear updates on young players like wide receiver Emanuel Ross, tight end Jamie Tremble, and starting running back Yasin Willis. All three of these guys are second-year players looking to break out.
Lastly, in development, it will be interesting to hear about incoming freshmen and how they are adapting to the pace of the game. Freshmen corners like Demetres Samuel Jr. and Kaylib Singleton are most intriguing since they could both play meaningful minutes this season.
Questions on the Recruiting Front
By far the biggest topic on the minds of Syracuse fans is recruiting. What has been an amazing summer for landing verbal commitments makes fans wonder what’s next and, more importantly, who’s next? That will be the biggest question: who are they after now, and how have they been so consistent lately? Lastly, it will be interesting to hear about Calvin Russell’s recruitment from Coach Brown’s perspective.
Who is the Number-One Receiver
At this point in time, probably Darrell Gill Jr. or Johntay Cook II. Gill, being the highest returning receiver in receiving yards, makes the most sense, plus he has been very productive in the offseason. As for Cook, the former four-star receiver offers more than any other receiver in upside and athleticism. Throughout the season, receivers like Justin Ross-Simmons, Emanuel Ross, and Umari Hatcher could play well enough to take the number-one spot.
New O-Line
A new offensive line filled with transfers will usher in plenty of questions and intrigue on Wednesday. The offensive line has three transfers: center Austin Collins from Louisville, guard TJ Ferguson from Florida State, and tackle Naquil Betrand from Alabama. They return Da’Metrius Weatherspoon, who started ten games last season at tackle, and Joe Cruz, who will be promoted this season to starting left guard. They also bring Zach Rice from North Carolina and Kam Pringle from South Carolina to compete and sub in.
Will the Offensive Approach Change
The final question to likely be asked on Wednesday is if their offensive approach will change. Last season, Syracuse threw the ball on first down the most often in college football, and Kyle McCord ended with the most passing yards. Now, with a new backfield, offensive line, and receiving room, they will likely slow down their tempo and run more. Still, you never know with Coach Brown. He could have Collins or Angeli throwing on every first down, leading the country in passing yards.
It will be interesting to see answers and updates on everything Syracuse football this Wednesday. Syracuse will be live on Wednesday, July 21st at 12:30 p.m. ET on ACC Network. Stay tuned for a Syracuse article after Media Day, covering everything.
Main Photo: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
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