Syracuse vs. NC State: TNIAAM Predictions & Poll

The Syracuse Orange and N.C. State Wolfpack men’s basketball teams are both sitting on the NCAA Tournament bubble right now, and a win over the other would go a long way toward their respective chances to make the field. On the year, Syracuse has already beaten State twice. Can they make it three times here in the ACC Tournament? Obviously, they sort of have to...

With tip-off a couple hours out, the TNIAAM staff makes its picks for the game.

Kevin

Syracuse 68, NC State 66

This is setting up to be a close game from two teams playing for their post-season lives. A big concern for the Orange will be the health of Marek Dolezaj, Quincy Guerrier and Kadary Richmond especially with the way those players can help attack the NC State forwards and hopefully land them in some foul trouble. Syracuse is going to need to play a full 40 minutes in this one and I think the Orange have enough from the foul line to survive and advance.

Szuba

Syracuse 71, NC State 68

This matchup could go either way, but Syracuse is the better team here. The beleaguered Orange should be somewhat rested having not played in a week. They need to mitigate the troika of DJ Funderburk, Manny Bates and Jericole Hellems down low against the 2-3 zone. Should they do that and keep the rebounding battle close (against a poor team on the glass), the Orange should win its second game ever in Greensboro and advance to take on Virginia. Syracuse gets it done and covers the spread.

John

Syracuse 70, NC State 67

All of this depends on Syracuse’s health. If everyone’s close to 100%, the Orange should have enough in the tank to squeak by the Pack. State’s a pretty good outside shooting team (36% on the year), but also don’t try many from three either. Ultimately, this game will be won for either team inside the arc. Guerrier’s ability to be healthy and on the floor for a full game (he fouled out of the last two vs. State) should make a big difference on both ends. An efficient, effective game for him should spell a win, even if barely.

Christian

Syracuse 71, NC State 70

The good thing for Syracuse is that the Orange seemingly adjust well to NC State’s game strategy. The Wolfpack started both games with early leads but Syracuse battled back to eventually win. While NC State’s freshmen guards have shown massive improvement during its five-game winning streak, Jericole Hellems and Manny Bates are still problems underneath the basket. Syracuse limited their touches in the road victory thanks to Kadary Richmond’s defense along with winning the rebound battle. With Jesse Edwards improving as well, the pressure to perform in postseason might catch up to the Wolfpack youth that has needed to learn quickly.

Now it’s your turn...