Like many college graduates this year Greg Paulus is headed back home, but it’s doubtful he’ll be living in his parents’ basement in Syracuse, N.Y.
After playing point guard in the ACC for four years, Paulus announced today in a teleconference that he will suit up for Syracuse and study either business or communications.
“Syracuse has a lot of great things about it,” Paulus said. “My gut and my heart told me Syracuse was the best place for me.”
The Orange have two seniors — Cameron Dantley and Andrew Robinson — at the quarterback position but freshman Ryan Nassib won the starting job in spring practice.
Dantley started for the Orange last year and compiled 1,298 yards passing and 11 touchdowns. He was sacked 24 times and completed only 48 percent of pass attempts.
Syracuse went 3-9 in 2008 and finished 113th out of the 119 Football Bowl Subdivision teams in passing yards.
Insert Paulus, who likely based much of this decision on the fact that he can step in and start immediately. His workout with the Green Bay Packers indicates an interest in the NFL since a career in the NBA is doubtful after a somewhat disappointing career at Duke.
“This is kind of a course that is unexpected,” Paulus said. “I’m fortunate to have the opportunity to do it.”
Paulus led his high school team to a 42-3 record and set several state passing records but turned down football for an opportunity to play for Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski.
“I do not have any guarantees,” Paulus said about starting for coach Doug Marrone and the Orange. “I’m going to have to learn along the way.”
After starting for three seasons as Duke’s point guard, Paulus was benched in favor of Jon Scheyer and freshman Elliot Williams more than halfway through last season.
Once the season was over, Paulus explored the option of playing football professionally before officially visiting Michigan, Syracuse and Nebraska.
