Syracuse Football Slated For Sixth In Big East By Athlon

It's about that time of the year when we make snap judgements on how good football teams are based on last year's results and vague details from spring practice. Athlon is up and they've picked the Syracuse Orange to finish sixth in the Big East this season, ahead of the Connecticut Huskies and Temple Owls. They think the Orange will end up 5-7 overall and 3-4 in the conference.

Syracuse was one of the Big East’s biggest disappointments last season, but there’s hope for improvement in 2012. Quarterback Ryan Nassib is back after throwing for 2,685 yards and 22 touchdowns, while the receiving corps gets a boost with the return of receiver Marcus Sales from suspension. Finding a running back to replace Antwon Bailey and filling voids on the defensive line will be some of the top priorities for coach Doug Marrone.

In a way, it's nice to be a disappointment again. At least it means someone was expecting something out of us.

Obviously I think we're all hoping for 7-5 and 6-6 but I don't think we can begrudge anyone for expecting 5-7 out of us at this point.

Athlon thinks the Louisville Cardinals will win the crown while the South Florida Bulls, Pittsburgh Panthers, Rutgers Scarlet Knights and Cincinnati Bearcats will be fighting for 2nd place.

Check out Athlon's full preview of the Orange here, where they think we're the 67th best team in the nation.