Two games into the season, Syracuse has throttled both Colgate and Western Michigan by a combined score of 113-7. That is sure to change this Saturday when the Orange visit West Lafayette for a primetime rematch with Purdue.

The Boilermakers will certainly have revenge on their minds after Syracuse pulled out last year’s game on a touchdown to Oronde Gadsden with just seconds remaining.

Before that, here are some observations on the young season.

Each season brings significant injuries. Eric Dungey, Andre Cisco, and Garrett Williams are just a few of Syracuse’s best players who have been lost to injury over the past handful of seasons.

The Western Michigan contest saw both Oronde Gadsden and Dave Wohlabaugh leave the game and not return. Gadsden returned to the sideline in a boot and on crutches. Dino Babers hinted that Wohlabaugh will be lost for a long stretch.

Both losses would be substantial. Gadsden is an NFL talent and helps make the passing game thrive. Wohlabaugh appeared set to help anchor the offensive line after transferring from Kentucky.

Now in his third year as a starter, Garrett Shrader has complete control of the quarterback position.

He’s completed 37-of-54 passes for 543 yards and five touchdowns. He’s thrown one interception and sacked once. He also hasn’t had to run much given the lopsided scores. Shrader has run the ball 11 times for 71 yards and a score.

The passing game needs to be more than just Gadsden – especially if he misses extensive games with an injured foot. So far, Umari Hatcher, Isaiah Jones, Donovan brown, and Darrell Gill Jr. have all emerged in the Orange air attack.

The quartet combined for 30 receptions for 544 yards and five TDs. Those receivers need to consistently take advantage of opponents created by defensive focus on Gadsden, if healthy.

Kicking was a question mark heading into the season with the departure of Andre Szmyt. To date, Brady Denaburg has answered the bell.

The sophomore is 14-of-14 on extra points and perfect on three field goal attempts. Though, he has yet to attempt one from 40+ yards.

Defensive scores are always a plus. They can be game changers in some instances.

The Orange D has two long pick-sixes for the year: an 84-yarder by Jason Simmons Jr. and a 66-yarder by Jeremiah Wilson.

Purdue – a Big Ten opponent in a hostile environment - will tell a lot about Syracuse. The Orange secondary will have to contend with QB Hudson Card, a transfer from Texas.

The Boilermakers dropped their home opener to Fresno State, 39-35, before rebounding with a 24-17 road win at Virginia Tech.

A win for Syracuse gets them halfway to bowl eligibility and could propel them to a successful season.

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