For a team that only has 6 man rotation, the Orange have remained true to their offensive style. Running, getting up the court and taking lots of possessions. The 2-3 zone of Syracuse has served them well, in that it allows them to conserve some energy on the defensive end. Given the inconsistent offensive performance by Villanova in their slide, this worked out well as Syracuse got a conference road win, 87-73.
Both teams drove to the basket, but Syracuse just couldn't miss. The Orange were 5-11 on 3s and 22-33 elsewhere on the court (68.6% eFG%). Four Syracuse players scored in double digits with Paul Harris scoring 30 and Jonny Flynn adding 22.
The Orange have gotten to 6-4 in the Big East, after looking like they were doomed following the gutwrenching OT loss at Georgetown. Instead, they have won 3 straight. The concern for the rest of the season, though, is how they can maintain this. Three starters played at least 39 minutes and a 4th played 36 minutes today. They have two stretches in the final 8 games where they play 3 games in 6 days and 3 in 7 days. As the number of bodies have fallen, Syracuse has 4 players averaging over 30 minutes per game, and in the recent stretch are nearing 40 minutes per game.That has to take a toll on a very young team.
For Villanova, they have dropped 4 straight and are 3-6 in the Big East and have not looked good in their games for more than brief stretches. Forget about the NCAA Tournament, they are now concerned with making the Big East Tournament.
