Syracuse football bowl watch, week 3: The computers love us, they really love us!

After this weekend, our Bad Boy Mower got hit with some serious nitro. The Syracuse Orange are 3-0 (“twice in 27 years!”) and getting noticed by humans who watch college football for a living. While some may be disappointed Bill C’s computer only ranked ‘Cuse 61st in the updated S&P+ rankings (my preferred computer AI as it’s predictive, not reactive), a commenter did some math and Dan Lyons brought it to our attention in the TNIAAM Slack:

Syracuse’s win projection has jumped up to 7.1 on the season, which is firmly in Gasparilla territory. But unlike many humans, the computers actually think the Orange have a better chance at 9 wins than they do 5 wins. With all that in mind, the Orange are half way to a bowl. “Who’s House?!”

Andy Pregler

SB Nation: Pinstripe Bowl vs Minnesota Golden Gophers

As previously discussed, the all-time Pinstripe Bowl champions would be happy to return to the House That Doug Marrone built to battle the Fightin’ Coyles.

ESPN:

• Kyle Bonagura: Military Bowl presented by Norththrop Gruman vs. Houston Cougars
• Mitch Sherman: Military Bowl presented by Norththrop Gruman vs. Navy Midshipmen

Syracuse’s strong alumni base in the DMV area means a well-attended game for the Orange.

CBS Sports: Independence Bowl vs BYU Cougars

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was founded in Fayette, N.Y., so there’s some meaningful ties between these two programs. BYU is actually pretty good again, it would appear, having just bested Wisconsin up in Madison.

College Football News: Quick Lane Bowl vs. Eastern Michigan Eagles

USA Today: Quick Lane Bowl vs. Indiana Hoosiers

Quick Lane participation seems like a decent bet, and nearby potential foes mean a lively crowd. This is one of the three bowl games (along with the Pinstripe and Military) Syracuse gets shuttled off to most years, unless we punch above our weight into one of the ACC’s premium bowl slots.

Sports Illustrated: Will update when they publish new projections

The Athletic: Will update when they publish new projections

This is what Dino Babers means when he says we were put on the map. Beating Florida State the way the team did ensures the people notice. It ensures that your speech is all over College Football twitter. It ensures bowl committees are watching from here on out, which is our ultimate goal.

So who’s ready for trip to NYC, the DMV or Detroit?