WVU (5-1) at Syracuse (4-2) Preview

Source: Syracuse University

Amid the conference expansion chaos, we pause for Mountaineer football high-school style as West Virginia takes on Syracuse Friday night at 8pm (ESPN) in the Carrier Dome. Last year Syracuse beat WVU after failing in eight straight previous attempts. That loss combined with West Virginia's first ever loss to Connecticut is a major reason that Dana Holgorsen is standing on the sidelines this year. Although Geno has said he isn't using last year for motivation, it's very likely that some of his teammates are.  

Questions heading into the game... 

Can WVU put together a solid game in all phases?
This question is a repeat from the UCONN game, where the Mountaineers did a much better job of playing as a team than they had earlier in the season. The special teams were vastly improved with Molinari as the punter. The defense kept the game close in the first half while the offense was struggling. Then Geno and company exploded in the second half to bury the Huskies. But was it a fluke? A great offense is nice to have, but the defense and special teams must be able to step up when the offense has an off day.

Can WVU play two halves of football?
West Virginia has been a one-half team all season. The Mountaineers were nearly transparent in the first half against Norfolk State and Connecticut, but went on to demolish the competition after halftime.  Against Maryland WVU dominated the scoreboard in the first half, only to idly watch Maryland mount a huge comeback that didn't end until the Terps were picked off at the West Virginia 13 yard line with a minute left in the fourth. The Mountaineers are putting up big offensive numbers, but imagine the outcome if they could play two halves of football. 

Will the Syracuse blitzing scheme get to Geno again?
Last year the Orange blitzed Geno and kept him off balance to force three interceptions and steal the game 19-14 in Morgantown. This year Syracuse has been horrible against the pass, so expect more of the same to keep the pressure off of the secondary. Is there something about the 'Cuse defense that agitates Geno, or was last year's game just an off day? Remember that Smith has put another year of experience under his belt and is playing in a much more productive offensive scheme.

Our prediction...
If Syracuse brings the blitz-heavy defense against Geno, look for the Mountaineers to run some counter plays with Garrison and throw bubble screens to the outside. With a gambling defense and shaky secondary, the Orange could potentially give up big plays through the air and on the ground. However, they are also likely to get a few big sacks or even some takeaways. 

Look for the West Virginia offense to struggle in the first quarter, but get on track early in the second after they have a chance to analyze Syracuse's approach.  Smith will throw a lot of quick passes to get the ball out of his hands, which will lead to shorter pickups and more methodical drives. The Orange defense will wear out midway through the 3rd, and WVU will pull away late. Syracuse will keep it close by making a play or two on defense and special teams. 

WVU wins 39 - 21.