Syracuse vs. Florida State Official TNIAAM Predictions & Poll

The Syracuse Orange (4-6, 2-4) keep getting hit with the injury bug, and that’s certainly not going to help them win. Especially against the Florida State Seminoles (7-3, 4-3), SU may need more than they have in the tank in order to pull off the upset. This one kicks off at 3:30 p.m. ET tomorrow. And if you’re not at the Carrier Dome (and you should be for a Floyd Little bobblehead), you can watch the proceedings on ABC or ESPN2, depending on your market.

So what does the TNIAAM staff think will happen on Saturday?

Steve Haller

Florida State 42, Syracuse 17

This isn't the best Seminole team we've faced but it's talented enough to roll us with the way we've looked sans Eric Dungey and just about any offensive linemen left on the roster. Their depth and our complete lack of that will be the difference. Dare I say Dalvin Cook won't run wild on us, even with our thin defensive front, but he won't need to. If by some miracle Dungey trots out onto the field, we would need to reassess, but until that happens we're in a hell of an uphill battle.

Kevin Wall

Florida State 47, Syracuse 16

It's too much to ask a weakened Syracuse team to hang with the Seminoles for four quarters. I expect the Orange to play hard, but Florida State's going to pressure Mahoney a lot and take away the short passes. On offense, look for them to use Dalvin Cook early and often as they attack the young DL.There are just too many players missing for Syracuse now and hopefully fans will see beyond the final score when we think about the progress the program's made this year.

Ari Gilberg

Florida State 35, Syracuse 17

This won’t be as ugly as the Louisville game, but it sure as hell won’t be pretty either. With Eric Dungey doubtful to play, backup Zack Mahoney will most likely line up behind center. Mahoney may have his moments, but they will come few and far in-between. Syracuse will try to compete with Florida State early, but expect Deondre Francois and Dalvin Cook to eventually turn this one into a blowout.

John Cassillo

Florida State 45, Syracuse 20

Without Eric Dungey, I just don’t see it. Granted, didn’t necessarily see it with him, either. But without, the Syracuse offense is a car running on three wheels (at best). Florida State has too many weapons to slow down against a struggling SU defense. And despite Zack Mahoney making some strides running the system last week, the offensive line can’t hold up well enough to assist.

Now it’s your turn...