Syracuse Orange vs Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Picks and Predictions September 7th 2024

After breaking into the Top 25 for the first time since 2015, No. 23 Georgia Tech is set to take on Syracuse in a crucial ACC matchup this Saturday. With a perfect 2-0 record, the Yellow Jackets are looking to maintain their momentum and stay in the national rankings. Their impressive start includes a 35-12 win over Georgia State and a significant 24-21 victory against then-No. 10 Florida State in Dublin.

While fans are excited, head coach Brent Key is urging the team to stay grounded and focused.

Georgia Tech’s Ground Game Fuels Their Early Success

A big part of Georgia Tech’s strong start can be credited to their dominant running game, which has averaged an impressive 5.9 yards per carry across their first two games. Leading this charge is running back Jamal Haynes, who has racked up 159 rushing yards and three touchdowns.

Syracuse head coach Fran Brown is well aware of the challenge this poses for his team. “We better stop it, or they’re going to keep running,” Brown said. “That’s just what Coach Key does—he runs the football. He’s an offensive line coach at heart, so he’s going to try to run the ball.”

Brown, in his first season as Syracuse’s head coach, knows Brent Key well. The two have history, having faced each other as assistant coaches back in 2004 at Western Carolina.

Syracuse Offense Shines Under Kyle McCord

On the offensive side, Syracuse also has plenty to be excited about after their 38-22 victory over Ohio in their season opener. Their new quarterback, Kyle McCord, a highly-touted transfer from Ohio State, made an immediate impact, completing 27 of 39 passes for 354 yards, four touchdowns, and just one interception.

McCord didn’t just rely on one or two receivers; he spread the ball around efficiently, connecting with eight different targets. Some of his key connections were with Oronde Gadsden II, who snagged seven catches for 108 yards and a touchdown, and Trebor Pena, who added six receptions for 78 yards and two scores.

With McCord at the helm and a versatile running back in LeQuint Allen, who had 122 total yards in the opener, Syracuse’s offense will pose a significant challenge for Georgia Tech’s defense.

Syracuse Defense Faces Challenges Without Marlowe Wax

Injuries are already taking a toll on Syracuse, especially on the defensive side. Star linebacker Marlowe Wax, last season’s leading tackler, suffered a leg injury in the opener against Ohio. Wax is expected to miss six weeks, leaving a huge hole in Syracuse’s defense as they prepare to face Georgia Tech’s rising star quarterback, Haynes King.

King, a transfer from Texas A&M, has been nothing short of impressive. In his second start for the Yellow Jackets, he completed 24 of 29 passes for 275 yards and two touchdowns against Georgia State. He also added a rushing touchdown to cap off his strong performance.

Wide receiver Malik Rutherford has quickly emerged as a go-to option for King. Rutherford had seven catches for 131 yards and a touchdown in the win over Georgia State. Coach Key couldn’t help but praise his receiver: “He’s like one of my favorite people in the world. He’s a huge asset for us and a huge piece of what we do on offense.”

Georgia Tech Has History on Their Side

When it comes to past matchups between these two teams, Georgia Tech has the upper hand. The Yellow Jackets lead the all-time series against Syracuse 3-1, including a 31-22 win at home last season. However, playing in Syracuse’s Dome is always a unique challenge.

Coach Key knows that early success doesn’t guarantee future victories. “We have to continue to build and get stronger each week,” he said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus throughout the season.

A win this weekend is crucial for Georgia Tech to keep its spot in the Top 25 and continue its early-season surge. However, Syracuse won’t be an easy out, especially with their new quarterback and a coach eager to make a statement.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Georgia Tech’s Running Game vs. Syracuse’s Run Defense: Can Syracuse slow down the dynamic rushing attack of Georgia Tech led by Jamal Haynes?
• Kyle McCord vs. Georgia Tech’s Secondary: McCord had a fantastic debut, but Georgia Tech’s defense is much more seasoned than Ohio’s. Will McCord find the same success?
• Haynes King vs. Syracuse’s Injured Defense: With Marlowe Wax out, can Syracuse contain King’s dual-threat ability and Georgia Tech’s explosive offense?

Conclusion

This ACC showdown between Georgia Tech and Syracuse has all the makings of a season-defining game for both teams. Georgia Tech aims to keep its winning streak alive and stay in the Top 25, while Syracuse is looking to capitalize on their momentum under new leadership.

For Georgia Tech, a win could further solidify their national standing, but Syracuse has upset potential, especially in their home Dome. All eyes will be on these key matchups as both teams fight to set the tone for the rest of their season.