The last time Syracuse beat Louisville, Gary McNarama went bonkers with 30 points. Barack Obama was an Illinois State Senator, Michael Jackson was still alive (too soon?) and gas was $2.40 a gallon.
Tonight, history may not be the Orangeman's favor but talent may be. The Louisville Cardinals will face the Syracuse Orangeman tonight for their 8th meeting as conference foes. Louisville has a sparkling 7-1 record vs Syracuse since joining the Big East in 2006.
Syracuse may very well have the deepest team in the country and as sport a #1 RPI, coming into this game. They are led by a strong back-court with Kris Joseph and their 7 foot, Center Fab Melo. The problem with the opponents of Syracuse is that you can't pinpoint one star on their team. However, I do think that the Cardinals should focus on neutralizing the play of Fab Melo, their offense is ran through him and he will prevent a problem for the less physical Gorugi Dieng.
To win the game, Louisville will need to rebound effectively and make open shots. One would also think that officiating would be even both ways, however with Jim Burr... anything is possible. Tonight Louisville will look to make it 7 wins in a row when they face Syracuse at 7pm on ESPN
My Prediction:
Cards- 77 Orange- 72
Louisville will trail early, and struggle with the size of Syracuse. In the 2nd half, I believe that Louisville's front court will get hot and Chris Smith along with newcomer Wanye Blackshear will find success with the slower defense.
