Colgate vs. Syracuse preview: Experts predict stronger showing from the Orange after middling season-opener

Colgate vs. Syracuse Football

Syracuse football will look to bounce back from a season-opening loss to Louisville when it hosts Colgate on Saturday. The Orange were picked to finish sixth in the ACC Atlantic Division this season, while Colgate was picked to finish first in the Patriot League.

Syracuse lost 31-7 to Louisville last week, while Colgate beat Wagner 38-14.

Colgate strengths and weaknesses

Colgate's offense is led by quarterback Jake Melville, who threw for 2,544 yards and 22 touchdowns last season. He also rushed for 473 yards and 10 touchdowns.

The Raiders' defense is led by linebacker Matt Bucknor, who had 105 tackles last season.

Syracuse strengths and weaknesses

Syracuse's offense is led by quarterback Garrett Shrader, who threw for 1,828 yards and 17 touchdowns last season. He also rushed for 436 yards and four touchdowns.

The Orange's defense is led by defensive end Steve Linton, who had 48 tackles and 6.5 sacks last season.

Experts predict Syracuse to win

The experts predict that Syracuse will win the game. ESPN's Football Power Index gives Syracuse a 72.2% chance of winning, while CBS Sports' Jerry Palm predicts that Syracuse will win 34-20.

Colgate is a good team, but Syracuse is the better team. The Orange should be able to win the game if they play to their potential.

Conclusion

Syracuse football will look to bounce back from a season-opening loss to Louisville when it hosts Colgate on Saturday. The Orange are favored to win the game, but Colgate is a good team that could give Syracuse a challenge.