1. An upset win over #14 Buffalo on December 18th
Syracuse has a good win over a ranked team, beating Ohio State back in November.
Past that, Syracuse has a fairly weak resume. However, the Orange will have the perfect opportunity to pad their resume on Tuesday.
On Tuesday, Syracuse will host the #14 Buffalo Bulls. Buffalo is 9-0, are one of the only remaining undefeated teams. The Bulls beat West Virginia on the road to open the season, and have blown past their other competition ever since.
It’s safe to say that Syracuse will have their hands full on Tuesday.
Despite being outmatched on paper, believe it or not, the Orange have more than a fair chance to win. ESPN’s Basketball Power Index currently gives Syracuse a 67% chance to win, considering their home court advantage.
Predictions and odds are nice and all, but Buffalo is no stranger to defying either of the two. Buffalo upset four seed Arizona last March in the NCAA Tournament, and have the West Virginia win under their belts as well.
Syracuse will need to be firing on all cylinders. Tyus Battle needs to do his thing, and Oshae Brissett‘s breakout season has to continue. The Orange must contain Buffalo’s lethal shooters, and maintain momentum throughout the game in order to secure a signature upset win.
It won’t be easy. but there’s nothing like a little Christmas miracle.