GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: Syracuse’s potent offense, ranking No. 14 in total yards (482.2 yards a game) will go against Notre Dame’s accomplished defense, which is No. 25 allowing only 330.1 yards a game. Notre Dame QB Ian Book was held of the Irish’s 42-13 win over Florida State last week because of a rib injury but is expected to play against Syracuse. He will present a challenge for Syracuse’s defense completing 74.5 percent of his passes (152-of-204) for 1,824 yards with 15 interceptions and only four interceptions.
DRAFT SLANT
–DE Alton Robinson, 6-foot-4 and 250 pounds, had two sacks against Louisville, increasing his season total to a team-leading nine on the season. Robinson, a junior, also recovered his second fumble of the season.
ROSTER REPORT:
–CB Ifeatu Melifonwu (hamstring) has not played the last two weeks and is questionable against Notre Dame. Syracuse coach Dino Babers said Monday he is hopeful Melifonwu can play Saturday against Notre Dame.
–CB Scoop Bradshaw left last Friday’s game against Louisville early with his arm in a sling. His status for Saturday’s game is uncertain.
–CB Antwan Cordy, a fifth-year senior, can return next season after being granted two medical hardship waivers. Cordy, 23, has not made a decision.
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