Syracuse Football: 3 takeaways from loss to Duke in Week 6

1. Syracuse lacking both athleticism, creativity on offense, defense

New defensive coordinator Tony White’s 3-3-5 scheme was supposed to inject some life into the Syracuse squad. A new scheme can only do so much.

The most obvious concern on the defensive side of the ball is an overwhelming lack of athleticism. To the naked eye, Syracuse appears slower than their conference opponents. When facing off against the likes of Clemson and other elite ACC foes, the talent disparity is almost expected, but not against a basement-dwelling Duke team.

There are some bright spots, and sophomore linebacker Mikel Jones’ interception clearly indicates his potential, Duke’s receivers found open space with ease on Saturday.

Flipping to the offensive side of the ball, Syracuse has continued to display a lack of creativity in play-calling. On their first possession, Tommy DeVito connected with star receiver Taj Harris on an impressive 79-yard touchdown bomb, but misfired on the rest of his downfield throws. The rest of the play-calling was dominated by bubble screens and other short routes. While some of this is out of necessity due to a lack of superior athletes, good coordinators can mask the weaknesses of their team.

Time will tell how the Sterlin Gilbert era will be remembered, but the first four games have been largely forgettable.

Of course, a better showing on the recruiting trail could also mitigate some of these issues.

Syracuse is now 1-3 (1-3 ACC) and will welcome Liberty to the Carrier Dome next Saturday at noon.