Would you say that this Syracuse team has improved from last year's four win team?

That is a tough question for this moment. Syracuse on offense has improved tremendously from last year. The new up tempo Dino Babers system is having great production that the Orange have not seen in sometime.

Even though the offense is improved the defense has taken a step back. Scott Shafer has a very aggressive get to the quarterback blitz type defense and that is how this team has been built. Now with a new coaching staff and new style they have had some growing pains that have led to some teams having career days against the Orange. With that being said I do think overall this team is a 5-6 win team like the past seasons, but with more potential going forward.

What were your impressions in their loss to Notre Dame?

The difference between good teams and bad teams comes down to execution a lot of the time. That was what happened in the Notre Dame game. Syracuse played well enough to win that game but leaving eight points on the field hurt them going forward as well as other mistakes on special teams that led to points. I feel that they showed fight and did not give up, but the execution and growing pains of a new system were too much to overcome in the end. Those two factors - execution and growing pains - are going to hurt them on special teams and defense, but if that offense is able to get going they can compete in a shootout.

Syracuse seems to have some offensive firepower. Who are the weapons to watch on this team?

The offense is loaded with guys that can make plays. Amba Etta-Towa is the big wide receiver threat, but at the same time Ervin Philips and Steve Ishmael are on pace to have record years receiving as well. Quarterback Eric Dungey is growing into a dynamic threat. He won't kill you with his speed, but when he runs it is very effective. His passing has also improved from a year ago. The Orange run game has not been great yet, but it has flashed at times and Dontae Strickland and Moe Neal have big play potential. Neal’s first ever college carry went for a 49 yard touchdown in his first college game. The key to stopping the Syracuse offense is stopping Eric Dungey.

On the other hand, the defense has been gashed this season. What do they need to be better at this weekend versus Wake?

For Syracuse to be better on defense they need to improve in two areas. They need to get pressure on the quarterback and their defensive backs need to cover better. In three of five games that has been a problem every game. In those previous five games they played three very dynamic offenses. If Wake does not have solid offensive execution Syracuse could be able to step up on defense.

What is your score prediction of the game and why?

I like the Orange 48-41. Syracuse is getting good at getting into shootouts and I do not think that will change this weekend. What I do think will change is a better showing from the defense. After having played three very high powered teams the Orange have been able to play well against the other two teams that do not keep their foot on the gas. I think the weather could be the only thing that could impact Syracuse’s offense.