Ronald Pradetto

By Brandon Matthews

They can be the difference between 4-8 and a Bowl bid.  Often times, that’s exactly why they’re brought in.  Last year, the Orange had a lot of guys not take that next step – or simply step out (thanks again, Mike).  This season is no different, and in order to be successful, Syracuse is going need certain guys to step up in order to be competitive.  Let’s take a look at some of those key players.

Averin Collier, RB

He’s not going to unseat Delone Carter, but he can be that explosive game changer this team needs.  Ranked a top 25 running back out of high school, Averin came with some heavy praise – praise he wasn’t able to fulfill with only 12 carries and 8 catches last season.  It will be tough to steal playing time from Carter (should he not suffer any sanctions) and Antwon Bailey, so when Collier gets on the field, he’ll have to make it count.

The Hofstra Transfers

Wide receiver Aaron Weaver and tight end Jose Cruz come to the Orange after spending some time with Hofstra. It’s only realistic to hope one of these guys can step up and make a difference.  Cruz was the higher recruit out of high school, but Weaver had better production pulling in 63 catches for 797 and 4 touchdowns this past season.  With Marcus Sales and Alec Lemon leading the receiving corps, a strong senior season by Weaver could give Nassib some pretty solid targets – if he gets time in the pocket.

Michael Hay Jr., RT

The Orange offensive line has seen the most turnover since last season, and it’s probably the weak point of this team.  In total, 33 starts were lost and only 27 return.  Legitimately, everyone in this unit needs to step up, but I’ll put the onus on Hay.  At 6-6, 290 and some junior college experience, Hay is slotted to start at right tackle during spring practice. With the rest of the line weak and inexperienced, the running game will be key to provide Nassib with some time in the pocket.  Hay should open up some holes.  He also played for SU assistant John Anselmo as a freshman at Junior College, so he may have a leg up in the playbook.

Deon Goggins, DT

Another Junior College player, and another guy with some serious size.  At 6 3, 280, Goggins is ready to assume the role of nose tackle for this Syracuse squad.  A lot of excitement surrounds Jason Bromley and Max Beaulieu, but both are unpolished projects that probably won’t pay dividends this year (Beaulieu sooner than Bromley).  Goggins is fully developed and carries the full responsibility of creating havoc in the middle. Looking at the way he pushes the pocket and sheds blockers, he might be able to do some damage.

Kick Returner / Punt Returner

It can be both thrilling and frustrating – the fact that so many games come down to big plays on returns and field position.  Defensively, the Orange is set up beautifully with Ray Guy semifinalist Rob Long. Returning the rock will be a major factor as this team continues their turn around.  Personally I’d like to see them experiment with Collier or even bring back Max Suter.