Syracuse vs. Rider: TNIAAM Predictions & Poll

Yes, the Syracuse Orange men’s basketball team DID just play another game less than 48 hours ago. But this adjusted college hoops season is basically just a normal season but more condensed, so... it is what it is?

After getting back on track against Niagara on Thursday, SU looks to run their record to 3-0 on the season when they host the Rider Broncs at 7 p.m. ET on ACC Network Extra. Rider’s yet to play a game this year, but they’re 283rd in KenPom, for context.

Before this game (and the football game) starts, though, what does the TNIAAM staff think is going to happen in this one?

Christian

Syracuse 70, Rider 50

As usual, these games are usually just a great way to study where Syracuse needs to improve. In this case, with a short turnaround between games, conditioning is certainly going to be a factor. How effective can this team be with only one day separating the Niagara and Rider games? Don’t be surprised if we see a dip in production just due to fatigue. Luckily, Syracuse faces yet another opponent playing its first game of the season so the Orange should have another win in the bag before a trip to Jersey.

Kevin

Syracuse 81, Rider 70

This should be a tougher challenge than Niagara but the Orange should have enough offense to get the win. With Rutgers looming next week it would be nice to see Joe Girard get back on-track and maybe playing more off the ball will do that. What I’m watching to see will be if Woody Newton can repeat a strong performance and make a case for a spot in the rotation.

James

Syracuse 80, Rider 55

Even without Buddy Boeheim and Bourama Sidibe, Syracuse should handle Rider without too much trouble. Look for Quincy Guerrier to continue his dominant play while Marek Dolezaj does a little bit of everything. Kadary Richmond impresses for the second straight game and the Orange cruise to an easy win and a 3-0 start.

John

Syracuse 78, Rider 59

Rider shouldn’t be an immense challenge for this Syracuse team, even with a short turnaround. And I think we know that against a squad like that, the Orange have enough offensive weapons to pick up a win. More important is making sure the rotation players stay healthy and getting Joe Girard past the shooting struggles that have plagued him for the last two games. Things are close early, as per usual. By the end of the first half, ‘Cuse puts some distance between them and the Broncs and keeps it.

Now it’s your turn...