Syracuse, N.Y. -- On the second play of Syracuse football's season opener, quarterback Eric Dungey lofted a pass down the right sideline before his receiver, Steve Ishmael, even glanced back.
But about 30 yards downfield, Ishmael, turned, leaped and high-pointed the ball before Central Connecticut State cornerback Carlton Nash even got turned around. The 34-yard gain was an example of the timing, rapport and trust Dungey has developed with Ishmael, much like he did with Amba Etta-Tawo last season.
It's plays like that which give the Orange confidence it can produce and score against any defense. And it's plays like that which Scott Shafer will hope to eliminate when he returns to the Carrier Dome as Middle Tennessee State's defensive coordinator on Saturday.