Syracuse vs. Eastern Michigan Official TNIAAM Predictions & Poll

The other shoe dropped for the tightrope-walking Syracuse Orange (10-2) against St. Bonaventure. But now we get to see how this young squad rallies in a matchup with the Eastern Michigan Eagles (8-3) to close out non-conference play.

You can watch Syracuse vs. EMU at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2/WatchESPN -- if you’re not already attending the game at the Carrier Dome, that is.

So what does (some of) the TNIAAM staff think will happen in this game?

Kevin Wall

Syracuse 74, Eastern Michigan 71

Syracuse is going to need to focus on the three players averaging more than 17 points per game for the Eagles, but controlling James Thompson IV might be the key to this game. Thompson's averaging 17.7 ppg and 12.4 rpg while shooting almost 70% from the floor. The Orange interior defense has been strong this season but it's crucial that Pascal Chukwu and Bourama Sidibe can stay out of foul trouble. I'd expect Tyus Battle to bounce back from his rough game last week, but we'll see how Syracuse handles the EMU zone. Making some jump shots early should open up more driving lanes.

Andrew Godnick

Syracuse 71, Eastern Michigan 57

Nothing comes easy for this Syracuse basketball team, and a win over the Eagles won't either. The Orange will use a late second half run to pull away with help from Tyus Battle. The start shooting guard will break out of his slump and turn the Orange right back on track.

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James Szuba

Syracuse 71, Eastern Michigan 60

Look for Tyus Battle and Syracuse to bounce back at home and to close the non-conference schedule out with a win. I suspect the role players to get some extended time in this one as Syracuse will get out to a decent lead and never look back. Battle comes back to score 20 to end his mini drought.

John Cassillo

Syracuse 74, Eastern Michigan 66

Syracuse pulls together somewhat of a complete game (it’s been awhile) in beating Eastern Michigan, though they never pull away. The Orange are tested a bit in the paint and things get dicey as a random player starts nailing 30-footers for EMU. Still, Tyus Battle finds his shooting again and Oshae Brissett chips in with a point total in the high teens. Orange win, but with plenty of questions as we enter league play.

Now it’s your turn...