It wasn’t pretty, but Syracuse Orange football pulled out a gritty win over Pittsburgh at Yankee Stadium last Saturday. Tight end Dan Villari and running back LeQuint Allen split time at quarterback, while SU’s usual gunslinger, Garrett Shrader, lined up at receiver with a busted shoulder. Likewise, this week’s third-down and red-zone reports reflect Syracuse’s wacky personnel.
Offensive success
Third down and 1-3 yards: 3-for-5
The Orange have excelled at third-and-short all season, no matter who carries the ball. Villari and Allen each had two conversions this week. Two crucial runs by the tight end in the fourth quarter drained the clock to prevent a Panthers’ comeback.