Season Update: Men’s Soccer

by Lauren Duda

The Syracuse University men’s soccer team has had a bit of a slow start to its 2011 season. The Orange currently hold a record of 2-5, and are 0-1 in Big East play.

Still, the Orange are looking much better than they did last year. They have scored nine goals so far in the first eight games, just shy of their total of 10 goals for all of last season. The team has already tied its previous record of two wins, and has only suffered each of its losses by a single goal.

One of the Orange’s most exciting games this season occurred on Sept. 11 when the team took on American University. Within the first few minutes of the game, junior Louis Clark scored a goal for Syracuse. In the final minutes of regulation time, American senior Jack Scott launched the ball into the goal, tying the game at 1-1.  Just three minutes into overtime, Syracuse was awarded a free kick, which senior Nick Roydhouse rocketed into the goal with ease. The win marked the first time since 2007 that Syracuse has won its first two home games.

Syracuse also tested the resolve of 16^th ranked New Mexico during the University of Akron Tournament on Sept. 18. Both teams remained scoreless until junior Devon Sandoval put New Mexico ahead by tapping in a goal at the 45-minute mark. The Orange immediately answered back when freshman Jordan Murrell sent the ball whizzing past New Mexico junior goalkeeper Victor Rodriguez. The game went into overtime and Sandoval yet again delivered a goal for the Lobos, dashing any hopes of a Syracuse victory. The Orange may have lost 2-1, but the game certainly showed that Syracuse has the ability to be a real threat to stronger teams like New Mexico or Louisville.

If the Orange keep up their high intensity game and continue to work hard this season, teams further down the line will have to keep an eye out for this veritable foe.

Syracuse will take on its second Big East rival of the season when the team plays away at Pittsburgh at 7 p.m. on Oct. 1.  Be sure to show your love for the Orange at their next home game vs. St. John’s at 7 p.m. on Oct. 12^th!

Orange Struggles Continue

by Ben Glidden

AP Photo/Steve Jacobs

The Syracuse Orange (2-0) pulled out the victory tonight against the Rhode Island Rams (0-1), but it isn't one of those victories to be proud of. I accepted the fact that the Orange allowed Wake Forest to stay in the game for so long last week because it was the first game of the year. We needed to dust the cobwebs off and get back to playing football. So, what happened tonight?

The Defense: Last game our defense certainly struggled. Our young linebackers were clearly having a problem and our secondary kept getting beat. Tonight, the D definitely improved, however, we were playing an FCS team. Phillip Thomas stayed true to his promise to Orange Slice Sports and improved dramatically from the Wake Forest game. He registered two interceptions, one of them coming at the end of the game, crushing Rhode Island's last hopes of tying the game.

Rhode Island quarterback Steve Probst did seem to have the defense's number tonight. He threw for 154 yards but more importantly, rushed for 46 yards on 15 carries. When the Orange locked down his receivers, he'd simply run take the ball himself past the first down marker. It was a frustrating night for the Orange defense.

The Offense: Ryan Nassib put together another respectable performance. He completed 29 of his 37 passes for a career-high 318 yards and three touchdowns. He completed passes to eight different receivers, which says a lot about the Orange wide receiving core. Van Chew earned the bulk of the yards with 134 and Alec Lemon got the bulk of the receptions with 10 for 94 yards. Both Chew and Lemon had touchdown receptions but the most important TD reception came from senior walk-on Michael Acchione.

The problem with the offense today was the running game and offensive line. The O-Line just doesn't look comfortable yet and it's affecting the entire offense. The part affected most is the running game. Antwon Bailey went for just 43 yards and then Marrone tried to mix it up by running Prince-Tyson Gulley. That didn't really work either.

The Lesson: The Orange aren't as good as we thought they were. The team still has a lot to work on, especially with USC being next week. I'm not saying they can't improve, it's definitely a possibility. The team has looked great in the final ten minutes of each game so far, but once conference play starts, were going to have to start playing before the fourth quarter in order to have a chance to win.

The good news is that the Orange have started out 2-0 for the first time since 1999 and that is certainly something to be happy about. Now lets buckle down, have a good week of practice, and beat the Trojans next week in sunny Southern California.

Syracuse-Rhode Island Game Preview

By Matt Appel

Courtesy of Alexander_O

Syracuse (1-0, 0-0) vs. Rhode Island (0-0, 0-0) (FCS)

For the faithful Orange fans who stayed all 4 quarters and overtime last week against Wake Forest (I’ll embarrassingly admit, I was not one of them), it will be a game that you will probably never forget. Neither will any of the players that played in that memorable game. And rightfully so; outside of last year’s Pinstripe Bowl, it is probably the most exciting Syracuse football game in quite some time. With that being said, it is pivotal that Marrone & Co. do not look past Rhode Island in anticipation of their west coast trip to USC next week. Easier said than done?

When Syracuse has the ball: It was very apparent that during the first 45 minutes of last weeks game that the Orange didn’t have the best offensive flow. That’s because, according to the coaches post-game, nothing they saw in tape of Wake Forest from last year was anywhere close to what they showed on the field. The Demon Deacons are going with a 3-4 defense this year, as opposed to the 4-3 they played in whatever tape the Orange had of them. Luckily, offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett picked up on it in time to salvage the game. Do not expect 3 quarters of stagnant offensive this week. Rhode Island lost at home to Maine last year; the same Maine team that lost to the Orange 38-14 at the Dome. Last week, we saw the weapons that the Syracuse offense will so heavily rely upon this year: over 100 yards from Antwon Bailey, an efficient 20-28 performance from Ryan Nassib with 3 touchdowns, and huge catches from #1 receiver Van Chew down the stretch during that comeback.  Last time the Orange played an FCS opponent, Nassib set the SU record with 5 touchdowns in a game. Expect more of the same this time. Willie McGinnis, a senior defensive end who is the best player on the URI defensive unit, will do his best to make noise in the back field, but shouldn’t be able to do too much.

When Rhode Island has the ball: Basically, don’t expect a whole ton. The Rams’ lone playmaker on offense is senior QB Steve Probst, who led the team in passing and rushing yards last year. The Rams featured an average offense in the CAA last year, ranking 6^th out of ten teams in terms of points scored. One thing URI has going for it is the Syracuse defense is somewhat banged up. It does not sound like Chandler Jones, the anchor of the defensive line, will play on Saturday, as he injured his knee (we think, the Orange have been very hush-hush about the injuries) during the game last week. With that said, the Orange should be able to run out a whole string of backups, and still be ok (which will most likely happen by the second half, depending on the score).

Prediction: Maybe I’m getting ahead of myself. This has all the makings of a trap game. Syracuse has a big game next week; they’re coming off of a very dramatic win, and are playing a far inferior team this week. Yup, this qualifies as a trap game.  Rhode Island did something ‘Cuse couldn’t do last year: Beat Nova (sure, it might have been in football, but you get the point). 

Thomas Looks to Improve on Last Week's Performance

Photo via zimbio.com

We all know that Phillip Thomas is an athletic specimen. Him and Shamarko rule the secondary for the Orange, punishing opponents with hard hits. But Phil has admittedly had a tough off-season, mainly because of his broken jaw. Because of this and an unexperienced linebacker core, I was unsure how Thomas would play against Wake Forest.

I asked Thomas if he was happy with his performance against Wake and he simply answered, "no."

"I got burned," he said. And I agreed with him because there were definitely times where Thomas got beat by Wake Forest receivers. While you can blame some of that on the linebackers missing assignments, Phil realizes that he was off his game.

Thomas said his jaw bothered him most of the game and the leg injury in the third quarter that forced him to the locker room didn't help either. He made five tackles, one being for a loss, but says he can play "a million times better."

Phil told me he is going to have a better game against Rhode Island. He has been watching film "day and night" and scouting his opponent tirelessly. He even added a Rhode Island wide receiver on Facebook in order to get in his head. Thomas is making all the stops.

The thing that bothered Thomas most about last Thursday's game against Wake Forest had nothing to do with what happened on the field. It was all about the fans.

We've seen on the news and on blogs everywhere that the fans at the Syracuse game left early. And no one was more disappointed than Phillip Thomas.

"I was pissed," he said. "Either you're with us till the finish, or not with us at all. I remember every face that stayed with us that night."

If you left that game early, Phillip knows. And he isn't the type of person you want on your bad side. He says players from other Big East schools have made fun of him, saying that would never happen at their schools.

So stick around this Saturday to see an improved Phillip Thomas. He is determined and ready to play.

Back to the Dome: Syracuse Football vs. Wake Forest

By Conor Hurley

Photo by Jason Rostkowski

The Syracuse University community is buzzing about the football team’s season and home opener vs. Wake Forest this Thursday.

Wait… buzzing about… football???

Yes. For the first time in awhile, there is significant hope and excitement for SU football. Coming off a 7-5 record and a win in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl, Ryan Nassib and company are looking to start off their season with a statement win vs. the Wake Forest Demon Deacons.

Fortunately for the Orange, the football Demon Deacons do not have the same pedigree as their basketball counterparts.

WF finished last in the ACC with a 3-9 2010 campaign, going 1-7 in the division. They do return starters Tanner Price, Josh Adams and Chris Givens on offense at QB, RB and WR, all coming off good seasons. They had the 110^th ranked defense though, giving up 35.8 points per game.

Nassib, coming of a stellar season which included over 2,300 yards passing and 19 TD’s, will look to exploit the holes in the demon deacon defense. And he will not be alone in that quest.

Despite Delone Carter’s departure for the NFL, Antwon Bailey was much more than an adequate backup last season, and is looking to have a breakout 2011 campaign. Wide receivers Van Chew and 

Alec Lemon will also be back and will look to improve on their impressive 2010 seasons.

And you already know Phillip Thomas, Chandler Jones and the rest of the SU defense will do their absolute best to keep the Deacs off the scoreboard.

One outstanding negative for SU football last season was their play in the Dome, disappointingly going 3-4. They were young, fairly inexperienced, and may have not been ready for the big stage and hype in front of the ruckus SU faithful.

This year, I expect the Orange to do much better in the Dome, and tomorrow, I expect the Orange to win 24-3. 

The Top Five Syracuse Sporting Events That I Attended In-Person

By Dane Lopes, SU ‘95

Dane Lopes, SU '95 and Matt Brabants, SU '96

So many amazing Syracuse sporting events to choose from! I attended Syracuse University from 1992-1995 and was there for the heyday of the Syracuse Football program and the beginning of the Donovan McNabb era at SU. In those days going to a Bowl Game was expected and it was a common occurrence for SU to be ranked in the top 25 in both football and basketball at the same time. The basketball team has continued their excellence under Coach Jim Boeheim and the football team has seen a rebirth under Coach Doug Marrone. Living in the tri-state area I’ve had the opportunity to attend so many Syracuse games after graduation from SU - from SU basketball in The Garden to football games in the Meadowlands (the 1997 Kickoff Classic at Giants Stadium comes to mind where #17 SU dismantled #24 Wisconsin 34-0) to Big East games versus local opponents, narrowing down my Top Five I attended in-person was a challenge, but here goes:

5. Carmelo Anthony’s Orange Debut

Carmelo Anthony’s first game for the Orange was played in Madison Square Garden in the Pre-Season NIT on November 14, 2002. In his Orange debut, Melo displayed his dominating talent knocking down 27 points with 11 boards on the big stage. Melo excelled in The Garden which would become his future home court with the New York Knicks. Okay, so Syracuse lost the game 70-63, but we got to see the much-hyped and amazingly talented Carmelo Anthony in his Orange debut. We all know how that 2002- 2003 season ended, with Syracuse going 30-5 and raising the 2003 National Championship trophy in the New Orleans Super Dome.

4. 1994 – Basketball – Syracuse vs. Kentucky

#4 Kentucky came into the Carrier Dome with an 18-4 record to face the #14 Syracuse Orange (15-3). Tony Delk led the Wildcats in scoring on the year averaging 16.6 PPG and he didn’t shy away from throwing up the rock in this game with 27 points on 16 shots. Thankfully for the Orange Adrian Autry was not going to be outdone as he scored 30 points on 10 of 15 shooting. In addition to Autry, John Wallace (18 points), Lucious Jackson (10), Otis Hill (10) and my freshman writing studio partner, and all-time Syracuse scoring leader, Lawrence Moten (18) were all in double-figures.

3. 1996 NCAA Final Four

Capping an amazing NCAA tournament run #4 Syracuse advanced to the 1996 Final Four held at the Brendan Byrne Arena at the New Jersey Meadowlands. Senior John Wallace put the Orange on his back and carried them through the NCAA Tournament. Syracuse faced a loaded Mississippi State team in the Final Four, led by Erick Dampier, and while the Orange were outrebounded by the Bulldogs 41-21, Syracuse was uncharacteristically sound from the free throw line, making 20 of 24, going on to win the game 77-69 and advancing to the National Championship Game versus Kentucky.

2.  2011 New Era Pinstripe Bowl

The inaugural Pinstripe Bowl played in Yankee Stadium marked the return of Syracuse Football to national prominence (and the return of Bronx-born Doug Marrone to his hometown). Coach Doug Marrone pulled a rabbit out of the hat with his rapid turn-around of the Orange football program leading them to a Bowl Game in just his second year as head coach. Syracuse had a huge home-field advantage with Yankee Stadium filled to the rafters with Orange faithful. Behind the backing of the fans, Syracuse went on to beat Kansas State 36-34. The game had a controversial ending when K-State WR Adrian Hilburn scored a touchdown with a minute and change to go and was flagged for excessive celebration backing up the K-State 2-point conversion attempt to tie the game to the 18 yard line. K-State came up short on the 2-point conversion and SU went on to win the nail-biter 36-34. Current Indianapolis Colt RB Delone Carter capped off his SU career, winning the Pinstripe Bowl MVP based on his 199 yard rushing and two TDs. Not to be lost in the shuffle was the outstanding performance by WR Marcus Sales who caught five passes for 172 yards and three touchdowns in the game.

1. 1991 Football - Syracuse vs. Florida

My second home game as a Syracuse freshman saw #17 Syracuse facing undefeated #5 Florida in the Carrier Dome. Coming into the game there was talk of a Florida Gators National Championship as #5 Florida had outscored their previous two opponents (San Jose State and #17 Alabama) 94-21, including a 35-0 route of Alabama. The game was televised nationally on ABC and Syracuse set the tempo when Kirby Dar Dar ran the reverse on the opening kickoff and took it to the house. Syracuse went on to beat the Gators 38-21 handing the Gators their only loss during the regular season. Syracuse went on to finish the season 10-2 and winning the 1992 Hall of Fame Bowl and finishing the season the #11 ranked team in the country under first-year head coach Paul Pasqualoni.

A Facebook Page Every Syracuse Fan Should "Like"

Via Sportsapalooza

Ever since Big East Media Day, Cuse Nation has been buzzing about one hairy fixture on the face of an enthusiastic Syracuse Football player. That player is Mikhail Marinovich and that hairy fixture is his new, sleek, manly mustache.

People are calling it "Mustache Mania" and I personally can't wait to see that bad boy take the field this fall. So many people are latching on to this frenzy that a "Mikhail Marinovich's Mustache" Facebook page has recently been created to promote the furry masterpiece that'll strike fear into the hearts of quarterbacks everywhere.

Marinovich is a defensive end for the Orange. Last season he earned three sacks and recovered a fumble. He made ten solo tackles and assisted on 20. There is one reason why those numbers will improve this season. Many people say that when you cut your hair, you become weaker. This is the reverse effect. Due to Marinovich's new mustache, he will become stronger, faster and a better overall football player.

Do you support the stache? There are a few ways you can show it. One way is the like the Facebook Page. Another way is to buy the "Mustacheovich" t-shirt from Sportsapalooza. The final way is to show up to Syracuse University football games and cheer on the team. I know Mikhail will appreciate it.

Syracuse Orange Fantasy Football Draft

By Ben Glidden

Last weekend, I participated in a fantasy draft for the upcoming NFL season. While choosing from the likes of Aaron Rodgers and Hakeem Nicks, I got thinking. Who would be the number one pick in a Syracuse Orange Fantasy Football Draft?

Photo by Jason Rostkowski

There are many options for a number one overall selection. First, you would have to figure out what position you'd like to draft first.

At quarterback, of course, is Ryan Nassib. Last season, Nassib completed 202 passes for a total of 2,334 yards. His completion percentage was right around 50 percent. He threw 19 touchdown passes but he also tossed eight interceptions. He didn't lose much of his receiving core, with the exception of Marcus Sales, so it looks like he'll have some solid targets downfield. If he displays the confidence we saw from him in the Pinstripe Bowl, he'll have a great season.

Antwon Bailey will get the start this season in the backfield. This pick would come with all kinds of question marks. Bailey didn't start last season but he got a considerable amount of carries behind Delone Carter. He rushed for 554 yards on just 114 attempts. He averaged around five yards a carry and scored a pair of touchdowns. But how will Bailey do when he is getting the bulk of the carries? Can he step up as a starter? The good thing about Bailey is that he catches the ball very well. He had more receptions last year than many of the wide receivers. He caught 35 passes for just over 300 yards. But running back is an injury prone position. If your number one overall draft pick goes down early in the season with an injury, you'll be in trouble.

At the wide receiver position, there are a couple different options. I definitely wouldn't draft Sales, lets get that out of the way. My number one option at this position would be Van Chew. He had 41 receptions for 661 yards last season. He found the end zone just five times but averaged about 15 yards per reception. Another option could be Alec Lemon. He dropped a few crucial passes last season so hopefully he improves this year. He caught 32 passes for about 400 yards and four touchdowns last year.

Nick Provo would be the obvious choice if you were going for a tight end. He stepped up big for the Orange in 2010 and will be a big target for Nassib in 2011. Look for him to improve on his 365 yards receiving from last season.

You don't usually draft a kicker first round of a fantasy draft, but if you did, Ross Krautman would be the obvious selection. As a freshman last season, he kicked six field goals that were over 40 yards. Coming back for his Sophomore year, he will look to improve on those numbers. If you want a kicker first round, go Krautman.

After considering all of this information, I'm ready to make my selection.

With the first pick of the 2011 Syracuse Orange Fantasy Football Draft, I select Ryan Nassib. We know he can perform, so rather than taking a risk, I'm going with the obvious pick. Nassib's productivity this season will definitely get me first place in this fake fantasy football league.

Who would you first pick be? Tell us by commenting or tweeting us @OSliceSports

The Five Greatest Running Backs in Syracuse Football History

By Ben Glidden

Long ago, Syracuse University was the hot spot for All-American running backs. Some of the best backs in NCAA history lived on the hill and played at Archibold Stadium under coaching greats like Ben Schwartzwalder. So I thought it would be good to look back at the five greatest of all-time on the eve of football season. Maybe we can muster up some of the magic these guys brought to the field so long ago.

Ernie Davis Legends Field at Syracuse University: By Jason Rostkowski

5) James "Big Jim" Nance - Like so many others in Syracuse history, Jim Nance was good in more sports than just one. In 1963 and 1965, Nance was the NCAA heavyweight wrestling champion and an All-American. On the gridiron, Nance was just as good. He led the team in rushing in 1964. During that season, he scored in ten straight games and is highly regarded as one of the best backs in Syracuse history.

4) Larry Csonka - From 1965-1967, Csonka was one of the most feared backs in the nation. In just three seasons, he rushed for 2,934 yards, averaging about five yards a carry. During his final year, he was ranked fifth in the nation in rushing. He rushed for at least 100 yards 14 different times and currently holds a spot in the College Football Hall of Fame.

3) Floyd Little - In his three years on the field at Syracuse University, Little did what no other Syracuse player ever did. He was an All-American all three years he suited up. In his career he had 2,704 rushing yards and over 500 receiving yards. He rushed for 35 touchdowns, caught four passes for touchdowns, threw a touchdown pass and took four punt returns to the house. He could do it all.

2) Jim Brown - When thinking about SU football, Jim Brown is always one of the first names that comes to mind. In 1956, Brown averaged 6.2 yards per carry and set records for most touchdowns and most points in one game. The record breaking game was against Colgate when Brown scored six touchdowns and accounted for 43 points in a game SU won 61-7. In his three years on the field at SU, Brown rushed for over 2,000 yards and 24 touchdowns. He played on defense also, tallying eight interceptions in his three seasons. He is currently a member of both the Pro and College Football Halls of Fame.

1) Ernie Davis - This is one of the most iconic names in college sports history. Just hearing his name gives me chills. He has a statue on campus that overlooks the quad and the field inside the Carrier Dome is named in his memory. His nickname was "The Elmira Express" and was the first African-American football player to be awarded the Heisman Trophy. He rushed for 2,386 yards and scored 32 touchdowns in his three years at SU. He also led the team to its first and only National Championship in 1959. In that Cotton Bowl vs. Texas, Davis was named the Most Valuable Player. He was an All-American in both 1960 and 1961 and was eventually inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. Unfortunately, Davis never got a chance to stretch his legs at the pro level. He died of leukemia on May 18, 1963 at the age of 23.

These men were an entirely different breed of player during an era of college football unlike any other. Syracuse was known for its incredible backfield and all the evidence is here to support that.

Do you think someone else should have made the list? Let us know by commenting or tweeting at us @OSliceSports

Easy Tips To Get You On ESPN At The Next Syracuse Sporting Event

By Ben Glidden

If your mom is like mine, she calls you before every sporting event you attend asking where you'll be so she can look for you on T.V. Well, you can save your mom the trouble and make sure the camera man focuses on you directly with these easy tips to get yourself on ESPN.

Get Loud - Do you think a camera man is going to focus in on someone standing in silence? No. ESPN wants to find the most enthusiastic fans in the crowd. Go crazy the entire game. I don't care if you're tired or if you have a headache, cheer your heart out if you want to make an appearance on the Worldwide Leader in Sports.

Stand Up - This one is obvious. If you're a part of any crowd at a big sporting event, stand up. How are the cameras going to spot you behind all the dedicated fans on their feet? Oh, your feet hurt? Too bad. Stand up.

Arrive Early - A lot of times, the opening shot for the game is taken an hour or so before it actually starts. The cameraman will ask a group of fans to get together and cheer as if something exciting is happening. While this is extremely unnatural, it is a sure fire way to get on ESPN.

Look The Part - Syracuse's color is orange. If you come to the game in green, don't expect to get on ESPN. Make a stop at the bookstore before the game. Get some orange and blue face paint, a foam finger, or one of those awesome puffy orange wigs. If you're decked out in Orange, the camera will be attracted to you.

Put these tips all together and you are almost guaranteed to be on ESPN. Need proof? Check out the picture above. That's me on the right. I'm clearly standing, loud, decked out in orange and I was one of the first students to arrive at the game. It's a recipe for success.

Syracuse Tailgating Must-Haves

What’s arguably the most fun aspect of football season that emphasizes camaraderie and great food?

If you guessed tailgating, you’re right. Here at OSS we’ve previewed the Big East, discussed the Do’s and Don’ts of Fandom, and written other super-duper articles detailing the upcoming football season. But now, it’s time to talk about the art of tailgating. When done right, the tailgate can make the football experience a much more pleasant one (especially if SU loses).

So without further ado, here are the must-haves for the upcoming Syracuse tailgating season.

Chairs - No one wants to stand up and only two or three people can sit in the trunk. So grab some beach chairs, but forget the sandals.

Beer - Bring it. Drink it.

Cornhole - Cornhole is in the Hall of Fame of tailgating games. People of all ages can play and its an easy concept. You can even make your own Syracuse themed set, which is a fun family activity in itself.

A Positive Attitude - Corny, but true. Tailgating has a mope-free policy.

Coneys from Heid’s/Hoffman’s - These albino looking hot dogs (technically “sausage”) are native to upstate New York and have survived thanks to their cult following. Think hot dog with a kick.

Trash Bag - the most under-appreciated item in tailgating history and the probably the one most often forgotten. Don’t just throw it in the car or let it blow away in the parking lot, bring a trash bag.

BBQ from Dinosaur BBQ - It’s no secret that Dinosaur makes the best barbecue around. Can’t stress it enough, the must-have of the must-haves.

A Football - Pretend you’re Ryan Nassib and toss the pigskin around. Just don’t hit the other cars, that counts as an interception.

Any other good tailgating ideas? Tell us on Twitter - @OSliceSports

The Top Five Most Valuable Players for the 2011-2012 Football Season

By D.E. Connors

Photo by Jason Rostkowski

There are now only 14 days until the Orange kickoff versus Wake Forest and begin the highly anticipated 2011 campaign. For SU to play up to its potential as a Big East title contender, its role players and stars will have to play well on a consistent basis. Strong safety Shamarko Thomas, receivers Van Chew and Alec Lemon and the offensive line are all a big part of the Orange’s success this year. However, these five players are the the most valuable on the 2011-2012 Syracuse football team.

#1 Antwon Bailey - Although Nassib is the QB, the offense will be heavily reliant on the production of Bailey. Bailey played Robin to Delone Carter’s Batman, but still managed 569 yards and a couple touchdowns. This year, Bailey will be the biggest offensive threat with his breakaway speed and shifty feet. His ability to open the field and wear down the opponents’ defense will dictate how successful the Orange will be.

#2 Ryan Nassib - Antwon Bailey can only do so much. Last year, Nassib eased into the lead position by providing stability, but he rarely had to make tough throws. This year, he’ll have more responsibility and freedom to create offense. If he can’t make the necessary throws, defenses will key into the running game.

#3 Chandler Jones - Jones could be the key to for the Orange defense. With the return of the Bash Bros (Phillip and Shamarko Thomas), coverage shouldn’t be the biggest issue. If Jones could penetrate through the backfield and pressure the opponents’ QB, the SU defense could be dominant.

#4 Phillip Thomas - Thomas has high aspirations for himself and his team. Despite a slight step back in the form of a broken jaw, Thomas will return in time and wreak havoc as a ballhawk. He simply makes plays. SU will need his athleticism and tackling ability to make a good run in the wide open Big East.

#5 Nick Provo - Provo had 33 receptions last year, good for third on the Orange, but wasn’t particularly effective in the red zone. Without the bruising Delone Carter, a new player will have to become the big touchdown threat. Provo, a 6’4” and 250 TE can be just that for the SU offense. 

Orange Slice Sports' Big East Preseason All-Conference Selections

Here are our selections for Preseason Big East All-Conference:

Photo Courtesy of Jason Rostkowski

Offense:

QB: Geno Smith - West Virginia
RB: Ray Graham - Pitt
RB: Isaiah Pead - Cincinnati
WR: Mark Harrison - Rutgers
WR: Tavon Austin - West Virginia
WR: D.J. Woods - Cincinnati
TE: Nick Provo - Syracuse
TE: Ryan Griffen - UConn
OL: Mike Ryan - UConn
OL: Justin Pugh - Syracuse
C: Moe Petrus - UConn
OL: Lucas Nix - Pitt
OL: Jeremiah Warren - USF

Defense:

DL: Brandon Lindsey - Pitt
DL: Kendall Reyes - UConn
DL: Bruce Irvin - West Virginia
DL: Chandler Jones - Syracuse
LB: Sio Moore - UConn
LB: Max Gruder - Pitt
LB: J.K. Schaffer - Cincinnati
CB: Keith Tandy - West Virgina
CB: Quenton Washington - USF
S: Hakeem Smith - Louisville
S: Phillip Thomas - Syracuse

Special Teams:
K: Dave Teggart - UConn
K: Ross Krautman - Syracuse
P: Pat O'Donnell - Cincinnati

Syracuse Selections:

Nick Provo - Provo came on strong last season and will be a crucial part of the Syracuse offense this season. He caught 33 passes for 365 yards last year. Expect him to be a big target for Ryan Nassib this season.

Justin Pugh - Pugh was an All-Big East second team selection last season and played a huge role on the line for the Orange. He was probably the biggest surprise for the team last season and enters this year with high expectations. During the off-season he has bulked up to about 300 pounds and looks to help pave the way for Antwon Bailey like he did for Delone Carter last year.

Chandler Jones - Jones was another All-Big East second team selection for the Orange last season. He will be a crucial part of the defensive line this year and will look to put pressure on the opposing quarterback. He had just four sacks last season but look for that number to skyrocket this season.

Phillip Thomas - Thomas recently broke his jaw and is out of practice because of that. But while he hasn't been at practice, he has been getting into the weight room bulking up. A broken jaw can be tough to come back from, but expect Thomas to have a breakout season. He will be a leader on defense and will put fear into the eyes of whatever team he faces.

Ross Krautman - This young kicker was a huge asset last season. He missed just one field goal and his season-long was 48 yards. This season, he has been named to the Lou Groza Award watch list, an award given to the nation's best kicker. A solid kicker will greatly help the Orange this season.

Do you agree with this list? Who would you add or remove?

My Top Five Sporting Experiences While at Syracuse University

By Louis Milman

Having graduated from Syracuse University this past May, I thought it would be fun and nostalgic to take a look back at some of the best games I had the fortune to attend while at SU. In reminiscing I realized just how many great moments I was able to be present for. If there’s one thing this list will teach any incoming freshman, it’s to make sure you go to every game you can.

Over the span of my four years, I was at 55 home basketball games, 2 NCAA Tournament Games, 8 Big East Tournament Games, 26 home football games, 2 road football games, and a bowl game (never thought I’d get to say that.) Here are the top 5 games I was able to attend:

5) (TIE) Men’s Lacrosse vs. University of Virginia 2/27/2009 and Men’s Lacrosse vs. Maryland (NCAA Quarterfinals 5/16/2009):
 
I spent the longest time trying to determine which of these games was more deserving of being on the list, and at the end of the day, I couldn’t leave either one off. The two games couldn’t be more different.. I remember the Virginia game specifically because we packed The Dome that night with nearly 17,000 fans. It was the loudest and rowdiest lacrosse game I went to. Then, when you add in a frantic near-comeback that resulted in a one goal game? The UVa game was my informal introduction to big time lacrosse, and boy was I hooked.

The game against Maryland later that year was one of the biggest roller coasters of emotion I’ve ever been on. I was so excited that the NCAA tournament was at Hofstra, right in my Long Island backyard. Upon arrival, that excitement went down the drain when John Galloway was nowhere in sight. With backup goalie Al Cavalieri playing the game of his life, SU was able to move on. 

4) Football vs. Northwestern 9/19/2009:


After suffering through the final two seasons of Greg Robinson (and trust me, that was more than enough) Doug Marrone had taken over SU Football. Honestly, any coach that wasn't G-Rob would have given SU fans hope, but when Marrone came in and nearly defeated Minnesota in his first ever game, most of us knew that we had something special in Doug. Two weeks later after a not-so-terrible 28-7 loss to Penn State, The Dome was rocking as the two best communications schools in the country took the field. It may not have been the prettiest game, but no one who was there will ever forget the image of Ryan Liechtenstein’s winning field goal sailing through the uprights. Amazing.

3) Men’s Basketball vs Villanova on Gameday 2/27/2010:


34,616. I really don’t have to say any more. With College Gameday on campus, the biggest crowd in Carrier Dome (and on-campus basketball) history, and the top two teams in the country losing earlier in the day, I still cannot imagine The Dome any louder than it was that day. John Wallace, Derrick Coleman, Lawrence Moten and others came back just to be a part of it. People were sitting in the opposite end zone! And at the end of the day, we were #1! Unforgettable.

2) Football vs. Kansas State (Pinstripe Bowl) 12/30/2010:


It was the culmination of four years of football, and in reality couldn’t have been scripted better than this. Taking over Yankee Stadium, first bowl game in 6 years, and the best possible send-off for the Seniors. It was cold. When Kansas State’s running back reached the end zone in the opening minutes, there was doubt. Who could help but wonder if Syracuse Football was ready for this? But they were ready. Three Marcus Sales touchdowns, plenty of Delone Carter rushes, and one misguided salute later, Doug Marrone had delivered a bowl championship in Year 2. Incredible.

1) Men's Basketball vs. UConn (Big East Tournament Quarterfinals) 3/12/2009-3/13-2009


Undeniably the greatest sporting event I have ever been to. SIX OVERTIMES. When Eric Devendorf’s regulation buzzer beater swished the net, the SU student section went NUTS. Standing on chairs hugging everyone in sight, only to have the basket waved off. I felt, as I told one friend, that the best moment of my basketball life had been taken away. “You can have it back in five minutes” she replied. Well, it took longer than that. By the end, everyone I knew was watching. Relatives in Florida and friends in California had all turned on the game that wouldn’t end. I could write an entire series of articles on this game alone, but nothing can compare to the un-ending adrenaline rush of six overtimes in 
Madison Square Garden. Unbelievable.


Are you a Syracuse University Alum? What were the top five events YOU attended?  

Big Three Recruits Hope to Make Huge Difference

By D.E. Connors

In today’s world of college basketball, half the battle is recruiting. Coaches can win games, but players win championships. Coaches spend their summer days in hot, sweaty gyms, looking to find the best talent across the country for that simple reason.


Recruiting is vital in building a program and sustaining its success. This year’s Syracuse University three-man recruiting class though, could not only sustain the prestigious program, but hopefully, elevate it to a new status.


The class includes 6’9” center Rakeem Christmas, 6’5” guard Michael Carter-Williams and 6’4” guard Trevor Cooney. Each possess an array of skills as well as outstanding athleticism that will help the Orange in the future.


Christmas is an extremely athletic, defensive-oriented big man from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He is ranked second among centers and nineteenth in the country in the class of 2011, according to the ESPNU Top 100 . Christmas was honored as one of the top players in his class by being selected to play in the McDonald’s All-American Game as well as the Jordan Brand Classic.


Alex Kline of TheRecruitScoop.com called him, “one of the best defensive players in the class of 2011.” Christmas is quick off his feet, runs the floor well and can jump out of the gym. Christmas excels in the paint on both sides of the ball. Offensively, he is a rim-rattler who finds most of his points on dunks and in transition. Defensively, he uses his 88’ wingspan to block and disrupt shots and grab rebounds. Christmas is an excellent fit in the Syracuse 2-3 zone, where his long arms and intimidating presence will keep opponents out of the paint. He is expected to move into the rotation and play significant minutes as a freshman.


Although it may be ambitious to expect Christmas to score the way his predecessor, Rick Jackson did, it is fair to believe that he will protect the rim and hit the glass like Orange fans are used to.


However, Christmas is far from a finished product. Christmas has had problems with his consistency and bringing the same energy night in and night out. He struggles to score with his back to the basket and has limited range on his jump shot. However, according to Evan Daniels, a national basketball recruiting analyst, Christmas has “more offensive tools than people give him credit for.”

Christmas chose the Orange over Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, Georgetown, Rutgers and Florida International. He reportedly was looking for a warm weather school, so Syracuse will be a perfect fit for him.

Michael Carter-Williams is a versatile guard out from Hamilton, Massachusetts. He also played in the McDonald’s All-American Game and the Jordan Brand Classic. The ESPNU Top 100 ranks him fourth amongst shooting guards and twentieth nationally in the class of 2011. Carter-Williams is a smooth player who can put the ball in the bucket in many ways.

“He scores like we breathe,” Tom Konchalski, one of the most highly regarded scouts in the business, said

Carter-Williams can hit from deep, but is not limited to just shooting. He is also able to use his length and athleticism to knife into the paint and finish or dish to a teammate. Even though the entire Syracuse backcourt returns, Carter-Williams will find a way onto the court because he can score at an alarming rate and play multiple positions.

However, for Syracuse, he will play point guard most often. Carter-Williams told me “that’s [point guard] what coach Boeheim wants me to play.”

Carter-Williams is noted for his special ability to close out games, something that Syracuse is in search of. On the defensive side of the ball, he plays with energy and is able to use to long arms to get into passing lanes.

Once he gets to Syracuse though, Carter-Williams will need to bulk up. As of now, strength is his biggest issue. He is a wiry 175 lbs, but to play in the rugged Big East, Carter-Williams will need to gain muscle to his skinny frame. But the positives out weigh the negatives, in this case.

“He’s got a slender build and might not look intimidating, but he can really score the basketball,” Alex Schwartz, President and Chief Scouting Officer of Northstar Basketball, said.

Carter-Williams chose Syracuse over Providence, Boston College, Temple and UMASS because, he said, “I felt at home when I visited Syracuse and I love the coaches and players.”

Trevor Cooney, a 6’4” shooter out of Wilmington, Delware, was the first of the group to commit. He picked Syracuse over Big East foes, Notre Dame, West Virginia, Villanova as well as Maryland.

Cooney is ranked seventeenth amongst shooting guards and sixty-seventh in the in the class of 2011, according to the ESNPU Top 100.

Cooney, first and foremost, is a three-point marksmen. He has “the tools you look for in a shooter,” according to Daniels. Cooney excels at running off screens and shooting off the catch and after one or two dribbles. However, unlike most players who serve the role of “shooter” Cooney can also use his athleticism to penetrate, as seen here - 

At the same time, Cooney doesn’t always take advantage of his athletic abilities. According to Schwartz, “He almost pigeonholes himself into the role of a shooter, when he has the ability to do more than that.”

If Cooney penetrates more often, the defender will have to respect that aspect of his game. In effect, he would create more space for himself as a shooter.

Cooney, who told me he models his game after Ray Allen and J.J. Redick, needs to continue to work on his ball-handling, in order to complete his offensive repertoire. No matter how his ball-handling skills progress though, he will always bring to the table a skill that every team needs - shooting.

The three players could all play pivotal roles next season, despite the many returnees on the Syracuse roster. This recruiting class possesses the athleticism, skill and intangibles to make a difference for the Syracuse basketball program next year and in the years to come. Christmas, Carter-Williams and Cooney could make all those summer days in hot, sweaty and small gyms just worth it.

The Do's and Don'ts of Syracuse Sports Fandom

By D.E. Connors

Courtesy of Jason Rostkowski

Before the fall sports teams begin their seasons, the squads undergo a tough two to three week preseason starting in mid-August. They run (a lot), learn plays, practice and run more in the hot sun to prepare for the season ahead. It’s a major part of the D-1 grind.

Considering athletes are now on campus working to get better, I thought it’d be appropriate to have our own “Fan Preseason.” I’m not asking you to pass a conditioning test or memorize plays, just learn these Do’s and Don’ts of being a fan. Listen to me and don’t be “that guy.” Pay attention, too. The “Fan Preseason” is a major part of the D-1 fan grind.

The Do’s

1. Stand Up - The Otto’s Army president, Ashley Andrew described it perfectly. “The student section should be a big party around the game,” she said, “and who sits at a party?” Losers sit at parties. So stand up and don’t be a loser.

2. Wear Orange - If you didn’t know this, Onondaga Community College might be a better fit for you. Shots Fired. But seriously, wear orange.

3. Berate the Opponent - Do this as much as possible. It’s so much fun. Even if you’re not within earshot, say it anyway. If you are within earshot, make sure that individual player can hear you. Personally attack him/her. Make them never want to come back to Syracuse again. If you can successfully do this, you’ll be a Syracuse legend, the next person to wear #44.

The Don’ts

Courtesy of Jason Rostkowski

1. Don’t Yell At Other Cuse Fans - We are one nation, under the Carrier Dome, with pride and enthusiasm for our teams. It’s okay to get really into it, but yelling at a fellow fan is a violation of Syracuse Fan Code. There’s nothing more frustrating than being screamed at for simply not cheering hard enough. That’s a major no-no. To each is their own.

2. Don’t Do the Wave - The wave is your one guy friend who tries too hard to get the girl. He buys flowers “just because,” sends lovey-dovey morning texts and spends way too much time with her. It may seem cool, but in hindsight, I promise you, it’s not. It’s a case of trying too hard, and we as Cuse Nation are simply better than that.

3. Don’t Be Late or Leave Early - I realize that we all have responsibilities and blah blah blah, but the most exciting parts of the games are at the beginning and end. That’s when our Syracuse brethren need us most and it’s also the most entertaining points of the game. If it’s a blowout, you’ll have the urge to leave but I advise you to hang in there. There is nothing funnier than watching the football team run over Colgate or seeing the short white walk-ons play for the basketball team. If you stay ‘til the end, you’ll be rewarded for your fandom with air balls and long runs.

Now that you’ve completed “Fan Preseason” you’re all ready for the upcoming year. You’re lucky I went easy on you. Next year, we’ll be running stairs and taking down goalposts in preparation for a big win.

Syracuse University Marching Band: The Unsung Hero

By Ben Glidden

Photo Courtesy of Jason Rostkowski

We here at Orange Slice Sports believe that every sport on campus deserves credit. If you work your butt off for the good of an athletic team, we support you. One group on campus isn't considered an athletic team but still works its butt off for one. I'm talking about the Syracuse University Marching Band.

Not only is the band one of the largest student organizations on campus and one of the oldest collegiate bands in the country, but it also has been supporting the Syracuse Orange football team since 1901.

The band plays on the quad before the game and on the field before kickoff and at halftime. The group also sits up in the stands during the entire game to support the team and play music during stoppages in play. All of these performances are pleasing to the ear and they also get the crowd pumped for when the football team storms onto the turf.


Louis Milman, a recent Syracuse University graduate and hardcore Orange fan sees the benefits of having the marching band at football games.


"I think that any sports team, especially in college, and especially a sport as physically demanding as football benefits from cheers, noise and support emanating from the stands." he said. "The SU Marching band in particular does a great job of collaborating with the student section in particular, and helping to create the atmosphere that makes the Carrier Dome into The Loud House."


The marching band pumps the crowd up in a number of different ways. After a first down, the band plays a tune and the student section chants the letters S-Y-R-A-C-U-S-E in sync with the music. After a touchdown, the band plays the fight song to which the crowd sings the words. And after every game, the Alma Mater is played. At that point, the student section wraps their arms collectively around each other and sings loud and proud to honor the school.

What many people don't know about the SU Marching Band is all the preparation that goes into the season. The week before classes start, the group goes through band camp. Each day of camp lasts between 10-13 hours of music rehearsal, marching technique and preparation for future halftime shows.

The band is referred to as "The Pride of the Orange" and I can see why. With all the work they put in and the competitive edge provided by their music and enthusiasm, they deserve some serious credit.