Syracuse Orange Football: Secondary Faces Rebuild as Key Playmakers Depart
As we approach the start of camp for the Syracuse Orange football team, let’s delve into the position groups, starting with the secondary. Unfortunately, the secondary will have to overcome the loss of key playmakers Garrett Williams, Duce Chestnut, and Ja’Had Carter, who combined for six interceptions last year. Their departure leaves a significant void in talent and leadership, especially considering the expectations surrounding Chestnut and Carter for this season. Can the defense regroup without these three playmakers?
On a positive note, Syracuse does boast a roster of experienced players in the secondary. Justin Barron, Alijah Clark, Isaiah Johnson, Jason Simmons Jr., Jeremiah Wilson, and Aman Greenwood have all logged meaningful snaps. Johnson and Wilson appear to have the inside track on starting at the corner positions, while the other four players will compete for the three safety spots. Wilson had some difficulties against Florida State but showed promise in his first season, and he could take a big step forward this fall. Johnson brings size and experience to the other corner position.
Under former defensive coordinator Tony White, the cornerbacks often played man coverage. It remains to be seen if new coordinator Rocky Long will adopt the same approach. Barron, Clark, and Simmons Jr. are likely to start, with Barron and Clark ranking among the team’s top tacklers last season. However, success for this group will ultimately be measured by their ability to limit opposing offenses on third-down conversions. The Orange defense allowed opponents to convert on 40% of third-down attempts last season, a trend that needs to be reversed for a winning formula. The safety group will play a crucial role in achieving this.
Dino Babers and his staff wasted no time reloading the secondary through the transfer market. With the additions of Clark, Johnson, and Bralyn Oliver for the 2022 season, the Orange will also welcome Jayden Bellamy, Jaeden Gould, Jakobie Seabourn, Berry Buxton III, and Jalil Martin. This influx of talent, along with Greenwood, Quan Peterson, and Cornell Perry, will be vying for playing time on defense and special teams. Bellamy and Gould, two highly-rated players from New Jersey, will particularly be looking to secure starting spots heading into the fall.
The ability of this group to create turnovers and make important third-down stops will be critical for Syracuse’s chances in the 2023 season. Concerns have been raised by fans regarding the defense’s ability to maintain momentum without Tony White, but there is undeniable potential within this talented group. The Orange faithful eagerly await the performance of their secondary.
By focusing on enhancing their forced turnovers and excelling on third-down situations, Syracuse’s secondary may just become a force to be reckoned with. While the departure of key playmakers presents a challenge, the combination of experienced returners and new additions has the potential to reshape the defense’s identity. With a balanced mix of seasoned performers and promising talent, the Syracuse Orange football team enters the new season with hopes of showcasing an improved secondary to support their aspirations for success in 2023.
