Scott Shafer

Purple haze
By Timothy R. Olsen
September 12, 2010 - 10:19am
SU tried to start 2-0 for the first time in 11 seasons, but Washington had different plans beating the Orange in Seattle.

Orange defensive coordinator Scott Shafer knew his defense had a tough task in slowing down Heisman hopeful Jake Locker. After the Washington quaterback's performance on Saturday, Shafer would probably settle for a slow down.

Depending on the defense
By Timothy R. Olsen
September 1, 2010 - 8:32pm
SU looks to the experience of its defense to become the backbone of this year's team.

Expectations are high for Syracuse’s defense this season with nine returning starters who significantly improved under defensive coordinator Scott Shafer’s system last season.

“The experience is there,” said senior free safety Mike Holmes who led the team in 2009 with three interceptions. “We’re definitely looking forward to going out there and bringing that experience.”