January 13, 2009
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Orange Improve in Win-Column, Future Still Uncertain
Syracuse, NY -- Before the start of the season, new head coach Trey Harvey knew the rebuilding process would be an arduous one. Little did he realize, however, that winning games was the least of his worries.
Despite improving from a 2-9 record in 2008 to a 5-7 clip this year, much of the season was marred by discipline issues and misfit players trying to succeed in a niche offense.
"We knew there would be headaches," added Harvey. "We always want to improve in terms of winning games, but there are other program issues that need to be cleaned up before we can make this an established tradition."
Six starters, including all-conference right tackle Josh Jenson, were suspended at various points during the season. Some for academic shortcomings and others for something as drastic as identity theft of a teammate. Backup quarterback Dustin Andrews was dismissed after being charged in late November for purchasing merchandise online with a stolen credit card from long snapper Bernard Zeller. The black-eye came amid a tough skid for the Orange, but the team bounced back for two wins to close out the year.
"We hung strong. There was a reason this team was always hanging in the cellar. A few bad apples have to be weeded out each time there is a change like this. A precedent was set," commented linebacker Brody Miller.
In fact, it may have been the wins in spite of the controversy that show just how well the program is starting to move under the guidance of Trey Harvey.
"You know, we saw interest from high-profile recruits that never would have picked up the phone in the past. Sure we didn't sign anyone, but I'm excited for the offseason," added Harvey.
The fresh paint has settled and all excuses are out the window now. It's officially Harvey's bunch -- a group of Orangemen who hope the future is ripe
02-15-2013, 08:07 PM
Re: The Only Option -- Syracuse Orange (NCAA 09)
