Florida State vs Syracuse Prediction NCAAF Picks 10/14
- Lm Tipster
- Oct 13, 2023, 6:54:13 PM
© Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports
Florida State vs. Syracuse: College Football Preview
It's a showdown in the ACC as the Syracuse Orange (4-2, 0-2 CONF) prepare to face the undefeated Florida State Seminoles (5-0, 3-0 CONF). The game is set to kick off at 9:00 AM on October 14, 2023, at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, FL, and will be broadcast on ABC. Florida State enters this matchup as strong favorites with a line of -17.5 points, and the over/under is set at 55 points.
Crucial Matchup Analysis
Florida State's Remarkable Turnaround
Florida State's resurgence can be traced back to a pivotal game in 2021 when they faced Syracuse. At that point, the Seminoles were 0-4, but they pulled off a dramatic 33-30 victory over the Orange. Since that game-winning field goal by Ryan Fitzgerald, Florida State has gone 20-6, now ranked No. 4 in the nation.
Head coach Mike Norvell reflected on the importance of that win, stating, "It was necessary. It built some confidence in the work that we had put in." Jordan Travis was a standout in that game, rushing for 113 yards and passing for 131 yards, showcasing a well-rounded performance. The impact of that victory has reverberated through the seasons, leading Florida State to their current undefeated status.
Florida State's Offensive Prowess
Despite occasional struggles in the run game, Florida State boasts the sixth-highest scoring offense in the FBS, averaging 42.4 points per game. Jordan Travis has been exceptional, completing 63 percent of his passes for 12 touchdowns and an impressive streak of 132 passes without an interception. Keon Coleman has been a force in the receiving game, tied for the ACC lead with six touchdown receptions.
While the defense has faced challenges, allowing 238 passing yards per game, they have tightened up in the red zone, permitting only 21.4 points per game. The Seminoles have also excelled in scoring, with 30 or more points in 11 consecutive games, a streak that dates back to October 29, 2022.
Syracuse's Offensive Struggles
Syracuse enters this matchup on the back of offensive struggles, managing just 286 yards in a loss to Clemson and 221 yards in a defeat against North Carolina. The absence of star tight end Oronde Gadsden Jr. due to injury has compounded their offensive woes.
Head coach Dino Babers acknowledges the need for improvement on the offensive side and states, "We just got to play a lot cleaner slate on the offensive side of the ball."
Prediction
Florida State enters this game as a strong favorite, and for good reason. Their remarkable turnaround since the 2021 win over Syracuse has positioned them as a powerhouse in the ACC. Jordan Travis's consistent and efficient performance at quarterback, combined with a high-scoring offense, gives them a significant advantage.
With a -17.5 points spread, the prediction is that Florida State will not only secure the victory but also cover the spread comfortably. Syracuse's recent offensive struggles, coupled with Florida State's impressive scoring record, suggest a one-sided affair in favor of the Seminoles.
Expect Florida State to dominate this game, maintain their unbeaten streak, and solidify their position in the ACC title race. It's a game that Syracuse is likely to find challenging to keep close.
