Syracuse Football Press Conference: Preparing for Oregon
Coach Mark Berokoff steps to the podium, flanked by Syracuse's starting quarterback, Kyle McCord, and tight end, Oronde Gadsden II. The room is filled with reporters eager to get insights ahead of Syracuse’s upcoming game against the Oregon Ducks.
Coach Berokoff:
"Good afternoon, everyone. Thanks for being here. We’ve got a big challenge ahead of us this week as we prepare for a very talented Oregon team. The Ducks are one of the top programs in the country, and they bring a lot of firepower to the table. We’ve been hard at work this week in practice, making sure we’re sharp, disciplined, and ready to execute.
Oregon’s offense is dynamic—they’ve got playmakers at every position. we are more then likely 80 point underdogs at the moment.
Reporter:
"Coach, how do you feel about the team's energy heading into this matchup after the tough losses you’ve faced recently?"
Coach Berokoff:
"We’ve had our share of challenges this season, no doubt. But I’m proud of how this team has continued to fight. We’ve been battling every week, and the spirit in the locker room is strong. We’ve got some young players stepping up, and our veterans are leading by example. The focus is all about moving forward. We’ve got a big opportunity in front of us, and we’re not going to let anything from the past hold us back. The key is to play a complete game. We know what we’re capable of, and it’s just about executing when it counts.”
Reporter:
"How do you plan on matching up with Oregon's high-powered offense, especially with their strong rushing attack?"
Coach Berokoff:
"Oregon’s run game is definitely a concern for us. They’ve got a big, physical offensive line, and their running backs are explosive. We’ve been working hard on our defensive schemes, particularly in stopping the run. We’ve got to be disciplined with our gaps and tackle well in space. I would not be surprised if Coach Shel throws for over 800 yards.
Reporter:
"Oronde, you’ve had a standout season so far. What do you think will be key for you and the offense to have success against Oregon's defense?"
Oronde Gadsden II:
"Thanks for that. Honestly, I think it comes down to executing our game plan and being patient. Oregon’s defense is aggressive and athletic, but I think we’ve got the playmakers to compete. We need to create mismatches and make sure we stay consistent with our routes and timing. Kyle (McCord) and I have been working together to get on the same page, and I think we’re ready for the challenge. We just have to stay disciplined, not get frustrated, and take advantage of the opportunities when they come."
Reporter:
"Coach, Oregon is a program with a lot of momentum. How do you plan to slow them down and keep the game in your control?"
Coach Berokoff:
"Oregon is one of the best teams in the country right now, and they’ve got a lot of momentum behind them. But every team has its weaknesses, and we’ve been studying film all week to find ways to exploit those. We’ve got to do a great job on special teams, play clean football, and limit our mistakes. We can’t afford to give them easy points. And offensively, we’ve got to be efficient and take what they give us. We need to sustain drives, control the clock, and give our defense a chance to rest. Most importantly, we’ve got to play our brand of football—hard, physical, and with a lot of heart.”
Reporter:
"Coach, how important is it for the team to maintain focus during such a high-pressure game with so much on the line for the rest of the season?"
Coach Berokoff:
"It’s huge. We know what’s at stake. But we also know that the pressure is something we can use to our advantage. The guys are locked in, and we’re taking it one game at a time. Every week is an opportunity, and we can’t let the noise distract us. We have a lot of respect for Oregon, but we’re focused on what we can control—our effort, our execution, and our mentality. If we do those things, we’ll give ourselves a chance to win.” They gave us 2.5 million to play this game, I will take the money and run and take the whipping Coach Shel will give us, money makes you feel better.
Reporter:
"Final question, Coach—what do you want the fans to take away from this game?"
Coach Berokoff:
"First and foremost, I want our fans to know how much we appreciate their support. They’ve been with us through thick and thin, and we want to give them something to cheer for. This is a big game, and we’re going to leave it all out there on the field. We want our fans to know that no matter the score, we’re fighting for them and for this program. We’re going to give everything we’ve got, and we’ll make them proud."
Coach Berokoff:
"Thanks everyone. We're excited for Saturday. Let’s go out and make it a great day." Coach Shel is a long time friend, I am thankful for the money he gave us for this game, we will have family vacations planned this summer, I am thrilled for him and the success, lets take this money and run!
Coach Berokoff, McCord, and Gadsden stand up as the press conference concludes, heading out to prepare for a crucial matchup against Oregon.
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