SU to take on USC Saturday

Syracuse (WSYR-TV) -- With the Fair’s end marking summer’s dwindling days, it’s time to think ahead to fall and nothing says fall like Syracuse University football.

The Orange are looking ahead after a home-opening loss against Northwestern. The team is now focusing its energy on one of the best teams in the nation.

NewsChannel 9 asked SU secondary coach Donnie Henderson how the team is preparing for its match-up against the University of Southern California (USC).

In response, Henderson asked us a question: “Could the Orange play 13 guys at the same time on defense?”

The scary thing is, even that might not be enough to stop USC. The Trojans are loaded with play-makers on offense.

Matt Barkley is the Heisman trophy front-runner; Robert Woods and Marquise Lee combined for 24 touchdowns in the opener against Hawaii. They might be the best wide receiver combo in the country.

And let’s not forget about Penn State transfer Silas Redd as running back - - he also scored in the season opener.

SU football coach Doug Marrone says that’s the challenge in game planning for USC.

I guess we’ll just have to see how it all plays out on Sunday. You can catch the game on NewsChannel 9 starting at 3:30 p.m.