Syracuse v. Arkansas — What we learned

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The Orange won in a tough road environment over Arkansas, 91-82. Here are a few thoughts from the game:

1. Triche returning to his old ways…

Coming into this season, Brandon Triche said that he was done being a shooter and would now focus on getting the ball to the basket. He showed off his aggressive play in the first few games of the season but last night, drifted back to his old ways. He became a catch and shoot player. Luckily for the Orange, his shots started falling when the Razorbacks started to catch up. But he took seven 3s, which isn’t what he needs to be doing to help this team.

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Southerland had a career night

» Related: Seniors Triche, Southerland step up in hostile environment

2. Fouls, fouls, fouls

Four different players, including three starters, finished the game with four fouls. It was a fast-paced game, but the Orange need to be more disciplined. The bright spot is that Syracuse survived regardless of the foul trouble. Since Carter-Williams and Triche both had four fouls, it forced Cooney to come in and play big minutes. Though he didn’t do much offensively, he wasn’t a liability on defense, allowing him to play important minutes.

3. Michael Carter-Williams can do more than pass

Carter-Williams finished the day with 17 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists. He’s been the assist guy for the Orange so far this season, but I’m not so sure I like him in that role. He cuts through the paint so easily and gets right to the basket. I don’t mind him being a bit selfish every once in a while if he’s going to be aggressive and get into the paint.

» Related: Orange hang on for win on the road

4. How can I not mention James Southerland?

Southerland scored a career-high 35 points. When he gets open shots, he will make them. He’s establishing himself as one of the best shooters in the country. He’s making big shots when he needs to and I just had to mention him because how can you not when talking about last night’s game?

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