Opinion
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Clash of the Oranges and Hokies: A Duel in the Dome

As the Syracuse Orange prepare to host the Virginia Tech Hokies at the JMA Wireless Dome, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a riveting encounter. The Orange's recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular, setting up an intriguing matchup against a formidable VT squad.


Jan 28, 2023; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies forward Justyn Mutts (25) pulls down a first half rebound against the Syracuse Orange at Cassell Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Lee Luther Jr.-USA TODAY Sports

Syracuse's last game on February 14 against North Carolina Tar Heels saw them emerge victorious with an impressive scoreline of 86-79. Their shooting was on point, boasting a field goal percentage of 62 and a three-point percentage of 47. With such accuracy from beyond the arc, they've proven that they can rack up points quickly and efficiently. The team also displayed tenacity on defense with 10 steals, showcasing their ability to disrupt their opponents' offensive flow.


However, it wasn't just about scoring; Syracuse demonstrated strong ball movement as well, dishing out 11 assists while maintaining an assist-to-turnover ratio of 1.38. This balance between offense and defense could be pivotal when facing VT.


Jan 28, 2023; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies forward Justyn Mutts (25) dunks in the second half against the Syracuse Orange at Cassell Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Lee Luther Jr.-USA TODAY Sports

The Hokies should not be underestimated though. They bring their own set of skills to this contest which could pose challenges for SYR. In particular, Virginia Tech's ability to control games away from home will test Syracuse's resolve.


Looking back at SYR’s performance against Clemson Tigers on February 10 reveals some areas for improvement despite their loss (68-77). While they managed to notch up more steals (14) than in their win over UNC, it was overshadowed by lower shooting percentages across the board – only managing a field goal percentage of 39 and three-point percentage at just 30.


Jan 28, 2023; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies center Lynn Kidd (15) drives to the basket as Syracuse Orange center Mounir Hima (55) and Syracuse Orange guard Justin Taylor (5) defend in the first half at Cassell Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Lee Luther Jr.-USA TODAY Sports

The most recent victory over Louisville Cardinals on February 8 is another testament to Syracuse’s resilience and firepower. Scoring an incredible total of 94 points with a field goal percentage holding steady at around 61 shows that when they're hot, they're nearly unstoppable.


With these statistics in mind, it seems clear that if Syracuse maintains its high shooting standards and continues its aggressive defensive play led by steals and blocks – as seen in these past games – they will have more than just home-court advantage when facing Virginia Tech Hokies.


Fans eager for action can mark their calendars for February 27 at JMA Wireless Dome where tip-off is scheduled for sharp at seven o'clock in the evening Eastern Time. The game will be broadcasted live on ESPN Networks - ensuring no one misses out on what promises to be an exhilarating battle between two competitive teams looking to solidify their standings as we inch closer towards March Madness.

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