The Syracuse Orange eyes a 3-0 start as the Central Michigan Chippewas head to the Carrier Dome. We take a look non-conference game below in the Syracuse vs. Central Michigan prediction and game preview.

Syracuse vs. Central Michigan Prediction & Preview

Broadcast

Date: Saturday, September 19
Game Time: 12:30 ET
Venue: Carrier Dome (Syracuse, NY)
Network: ESPN3

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Why You Need To Care

It’s been almost a quarter-century since Syracuse started a season 3-0. So, despite the softness of the early schedule, remaining unbeaten would be a historically big deal for head coach Scott Shafer and his Orange, which outlasted Wake Forest, 30-17, in the dome last weekend. Central Michigan evened its mark with a win over FCS Monmouth a week after opening with a solid effort against Oklahoma State.

Why Central Michigan Will Win

Does Syracuse have enough on offense to keep winning? Orange rookie QB Eric Dungey was forced into action after Terrel Hunt was injured. And if not for a couple of long balls through the air, the team would have been shut down by Wake Forest. The Chippewa D has played well so far, including in the game with Oklahoma State.

Why Syracuse Will Win

The D is feisty, and will cause major problems for QB Cooper Rush and the Central Michigan attack. The Orange has been stout against the run, and produced four sacks, three interceptions and six hurries last week. DE Luke Arciniega, SS Antwan Cordy and CB Julian Whigham aren’t household names, but they’re making plays right now for Syracuse.

Player Who Matters

In an effort to take some of the heat off Dungey, Syracuse will be looking for more from its veteran backs, George Morris and Devante McFarlane. Save for one long Morris jaunt, neither saw a lot of room last week, but the Orange will be looking to improve those results this week.

What’s Going To Happen?

Syracuse is learning how to win ugly, minus much explosiveness from the offense. The Orange will go back to that formula in Week 3, quieting an average Central Michigan offense, and getting just enough from Dungey and the backs to achieve that elusive 3-0 start.

Syracuse vs. Central Michigan Prediction

Prediction: Syracuse 27, Central Michigan 17, Line: Syracuse -7, o/u: 46

Must See Rating: 5: Republican Debate, Second Round – 1: Republican Debate, First Round … 1.5

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