The predictions are starting to roll in for the first ACC game of the upcoming weekend (ours...in case you were wondering), and the quartet of ESPN experts who cover the league are split on the outcome.
Adelson: The Louisville defense has been extremely impressive, coming into the game ranked No. 3 in the nation in total defense, No. 1 in rush defense, No. 9 in scoring defense and tied for fifth in turnovers gained. On the road, with a freshman starting quarterback and a shaky offensive line, the Cards will once again rely on its stout defense to be the difference in a game that will not feature much offense. Louisville 20, Syracuse 17
Fortuna: Points will be hard to come by in this game, but the Orange's offense is due for a break or two after having little to show for high-yardage efforts in consecutive losses to Maryland and Notre Dame. Louisville's defense has been ridiculously strong through five weeks, but its offense, surprisingly enough, has left much to be desired, especially up front. Scott Shafer's defense made life difficult for a much better Cardinals team in 2012, and it forced five Notre Dame turnovers in last week's loss in Jersey. Expect another defensive score in this game as Louisville falls victim to the tricky Friday night Carrier Dome tilt that has stopped so many better teams in recent years. Syracuse 20, Louisville 14
For what it's worth, Jared Shanker was the only member of the group who correctly predicted Louisville's upset loss to Virginia.
I still don't trust him.
