After entering the half with a 34-7 lead over Western Michigan on Friday night, Syracuse collapsed in the third quarter, allowing 28 points and 336 yards.
Western Michigan’s offensive explosion came from the ground and the air but was largely a product of Syracuse’s defensive mishaps.
“We need to get better obviously, handling those emotional swings.” SU head coach Dino Babers said on Monday. “From not letting deep balls over our heads, we had some runs that were busted, guys not fitting the right gap from a defensive standpoint. Offensively way too many drops. Between the balls going over the head and drops, I think I’ll just stop right there.