The Syracuse Orange (3-1, 1-1) will hit the road for the first time in 2024, but will stay indoors. The Dutch will take on the #25 UNLV Rebels (4-0) of the Mountain West. It kicks off tonight at 9:00 on FS1 from Allegiant Stadium in Vegas.

Here’s what we think will happen tonight:

Kevin: Syracuse 31, UNLV 27

There is a lot of buzz in Vegas about the Rebels because of what is happening on and off the field. This is a team that feels like they’re there, but Syracuse has an experienced locker room that knows tonight’s game could change a season. Yes, this group has flaws, but I think we see Kyle McCord and Devin Grant playing key pieces in the fourth quarter to help the Orange leave Vegas with more than they brought.

Maximum: Syracuse 38, UNLV 34

These two teams are virtually identical on paper, including overall power rankings and strength of schedule per PFF. The only metric with a staggering difference? SU’s pass-heavy offense against UNLV’s run-dominant passing attack. McCord presents the Rebels’ D’s biggest challenge yet this year, and I think a few quick hits will give the Dutch an early lead and help set the tone. It will be a high-scoring game, but Syracuse’s defensive front does just enough to stop the run in a narrow win.

Mike: Syracuse 38, UNLV 31

While trends indicate this will be a high-scoring game, the Rebels’ ground-heavy play could work against them by chewing up too much clock. Their defense, in my opinion, relies too much on takeaways and is prone to giving up chunks of passing plays. If the Dutch forward can remain patient and take what is given to them, they will come out on top in their first road test.

Dom: UNLV 30, Syracuse 27

It looks like I’ll be the first (and possibly only) Disloyal Idiot for this week’s predictions. Like everyone else, I think this will be a close match with neither team winning by more than seven points. UNLV’s run-heavy scheme will be scary to stop, and even though the Orange’s run defense has improved, it remains a concern. Both offenses remain good no matter what. During the preseason record predictions, I picked UNLV as a slim loss and that was without knowing the Rebels would get off to a perfect start. I’ll ride and die with that prediction in this match.

*************************************************** *************************************************** *

Now it’s your turn