Syracuse vs. Florida State: TNIAAM predictions & poll

There’s a lot riding on Saturday’s game between the Syracuse Orange (3-4, 0-3) and the Florida State Seminoles (3-4, 2-3) — something every SU fan, coach and player knows at this point. Despite a couple second-half comeback attempts in recent weeks, SU’s lost two straight and a defeat against FSU would mean the Orange need to close at 3-1 to make a bowl. There aren’t exactly great odds there. The ‘Noles are in a similar boat, and with at least one tougher opponent (Florida) to close the season too.

Before this road game gets going on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2, the TNIAAM staff weighs in on what’s likely to happen:

Andy Pregler

Florida State 27, Syracuse 24

I can’t see the Orange stuffing Cam Akers enough, as if Taggart wants to keep his job another week, he’ll run Akers until Syracuse gets overaggressive to stuff the run, and then take the top off the Orange. I don’t think FSU stops the Orange like Pitt, but they’re aggressive enough that ’Cuse will give up too many sacks to mount a comeback.

Kevin Wall

Florida State 23, Syracuse 16

Can Syracuse win this game? Sure but there has been nothing the last two weeks which makes me feel like they will. Despite the talk of changing players on the offensive line I think that Syracuse will be hesitant to do so for a road game. Look for the Orange to try and take advantage of an aggressive defense with some misdirection and more RPO looks. Once again the team plays hard but once again they fall short of a victory as Cam Akers scores twice and the Seminoles hold off a late Syracuse rally.

Steve Haller

Florida State 24, Syracuse 20

I don’t know what happens when two teams that can’t get out of their own way meet, but we’re going to find out on Saturday. Ultimately Syracuse succumbs to Cam Akers and the overall talent of the Seminoles. Neither defensive line is going to let the opposition have much time to work with, but FSU takes advantage of whatever time they have and end up pulling it out in yet another ugly game.

John Cassillo

Florida State 31, Syracuse 20

I don’t think it really matters who starts for Syracuse in this one as long as the offensive line looks as it has the last couple weeks. Without a run game, the Orange will be forced to pass, and that could lead to at least one QB getting teed off on all afternoon. Cam Akers should be able to run well against the SU defense, which will help FSU cut down on potential mistakes in the passing game. Expect Florida State to start strong and then keep Syracuse at an arm’s length from there.

Now it’s your turn...