Simmons/News

By Brandon Matthews 

The growth of Rick Jackson’s game in his senior year has been overwhelming. Nine double-doubles in 13 games (he had three such games all of last season), growth in nearly every major statistical category (points, assists, rebounds, blocks, steals), and a stronger and more effective physique.  But what happens when Rick gets into foul trouble? 

Jackson has done a phenomenal job of limiting fouls this season, racking up two or less in 12 of the 13 games this season.  The only time with more, four against William and Mary.  Syracuse escaped with a 63-60 win, but it was arguably the poorest performance by the Orange.  The two teams finished even in rebounds, Syracuse began forcing shots from the outside (5-22), and without William and Mary’s 20 turnovers it could have been an embarrassing early season loss. 

SU’s offense centers around Jackson.  The defense relies on him to end possessions (3rd in the Nation in Defensive Rebounds per game).  With the poor play of freshman Fab Melo, the Orange are once again handcuffed by a lack of depth on the front line.  Last season, if Arinze Onuaku got into foul trouble, Jackson could handle the load by himself.  What happens this season? 

The Orange have yet to play an away game, where referees can be less than forgiving.  The team has yet to play a Big East team, where rosters are filled with big bodies.  Rick had at least four fouls in seven games last season, fouling out of 3 of them.  

With Rick Jackson as the focal point, this could once again be a special Syracuse squad.  But is it reasonable to believe he’ll always be there late in the second half?