Syracuse routed Louisville on Saturday in its home opener, 31-7, and that left plenty of people impressed, including former SU defensive lineman Tyler Marona. We chatted with him about the win and looked forward to the rest of the season in this week’s The Juice on the Cuse Podcast, presented by SNY.tv.
Though the Orange came in as a 4.5 underdog, Syracuse quickly took charge of the game, scoring on its first three possessions to open up an early 17-7 lead. Louisville wouldn’t score after the first quarter, as the Orange forced two interceptions and a fumble from Cardinals quarterback Malik Cunningham.
From there, SU’s offense continued to hum, as SU amassed 449 yards, including 207 on the ground. Star running back Sean Tucker rushed for 98 yards and a score, and caught six passes for 85 yards and another score.
“As a former defender this is the type of win that sets the tone for the rest of the season,” Marona said. “It was so refreshing to see our defense be complimented by an offense that was able to score points.”
Marona was impressed with new offensive coordinator Robert Anae and quarterbacks coach Jason Beck, who worked with quarterback Garrett Shrader in the offseason to be a more effective passer. Shrader threw for 236 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 94 yards and another score.
“It’s unbelievable,” Marona said. “What Anae and Beck have been doing is opening up the ability for Shrader to have time to throw the ball. Our offensive line is protecting him. That’s something that’s going to be critical from here on out, and that’s going to be the driver to how successful the team is going to be.”
» Related: Syracuse dominates Louisville in 31-7 win
That’s left Marona thinking the Orange can get off to a hot start. Syracuse plays against Connecticut next week in a game in which it will be favored, and then comes home for what should be a tough matchup against Big 10 opponent Purdue. If SU can win that game, then there will be plenty of reason for optimism.
“They’re not taking no for an answer this year,” Marona said. “I think there’s a really good chance that we start closer to 6-0 than it is that we lose more than six games. I’m encouraged that this team has the ability to take it to anybody.”
Afterward, editor in chief Brad Bierman calls in to give his thoughts on the win over Louisville, and then previews the upcoming matchup against Connecticut.
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