Syracuse and Twitch launching new esports course

Late last year, we opened up a conversation around the Syracuse Orange and esports, as the NCAA debated what to do next about the emerging field. Some of you were skeptical. Others were more supportive of the idea, whether or not they were gamers themselves.

Regardless of your viewpoint there, it’s hard to deny the growth and impact of esports as a booming industry worldwide (set to hit $1.1 billion next year). At Syracuse University, they’ll now help students take a look at that emerging business opportunity, especially through the lens of media and broadcasting.

SU and esports streaming giant Twitch (owned by Amazon) have announced a new course through Newhouse looking at how esports has grown and will continue to grow with regard to content distribution. Cool stuff, whether you’re a believer or not.

The rest of your Syracuse-related links below:

Syracuse Partners With Twitch on Esports Curriculum (SportTechie)

Students will work with Twitch throughout the semester. They will examine the history, technologies and business models behind esports, along with the roles of teams, leagues and services such as Twitch, to get an understanding of how esports intersect with media and broadcast. They’ll also work directly esports organizations to produce written analyses, live broadcasts, and advertising plans. The course will have a dedicated Twitch channel that will host guest speakers.

Faceoff star TD Ierlan leaving Albany; Could Syracuse lacrosse be in mix for new home? (Syracuse.com)

Albany hasn’t yet revealed any news on Ierlan’s status. If the school grants him his release, Ierlan would be immediately eligible to play wherever he transfers. If the Great Danes don’t give him a release, he would first have to sit out a season before playing. Cornell and Syracuse are speculated as the leading contenders to Ierlan’s new home.

Who stood out at OTA practice? (Giants.com)

WR AMBA ETTA-TAWO: After bouncing from Jacksonville to Kansas City and then to the Giants’ practice squad last season, Etta-Tawo is looking to find a permanent home. The 6-foot-1, 208-pound receiver helped his cause today with a handful of impressive catches, including a spinning sideline grab from Kyle Lauletta.

Hopkins using his bonus to buy $15K worth of Starbucks gift cards for Huskies fans (LocalSYR)

“It was a great honor to be named Pac-12 Coach of the Year, but the reality is this is a tribute to our entire team, our program and the University community,” Hopkins said in a statement. “I wouldn’t have won this award without such incredible support, so I wanted to give back to some of the many important people who have made this a memorable first season possible, and have welcomed me and my family into this incredible Seattle community.”

We ranked the best conference challenge matchups for this upcoming college basketball season (NCAA.com)

20. Syracuse at Ohio State, ACC-Big Ten Challenge, Nov. 28: Tyus Battle’s 11th-hour decision to return to the Orange means the entire starting five is back from a surprising Sweet 16 run from the First Four. The Buckeyes are now in a retooling mode after sensational first season under Chris Holtmann. Syracuse’s zone should be in March mode since the team returns. Getting a true non-conference road win at any time is a huge get.

Way-Early 2019 Rankings: No. 10-No. 6 (Division I Women) (US Lacrosse Magazine)

Report: Las Vegas Bowl could pit Pac-12 vs. Power Five team like SEC, starting in 2020 (CBS Sports)

Jordyn Adams will pursue baseball career, won’t enroll at North Carolina (ESPN)

3-star New Jersey DE David Ojabo visiting Syracuse today and tomorrow (Twitter)