SYRACUSE — Greg Robinson established one point before the Syracuse University football season officially started Monday.

In a stern statement, the head coach of the Orange said the 2008 campaign shouldn't revolve around his future with the program, but his team's effort leading to wins. No excuse, just produce.

"This is not about me," Robinson said. "This is about a team getting ready for a football season. We're talking about this season. We're not talking about future seasons or anything like that."

Entering his fourth year as SU's head man, Robinson believes the program is reaching a positive turning point.

"I'm very confident that the make-up, the character and the talent of this team — and the coaching staff — will give us an opportunity to get this headed in a real positive direction," Robinson said.

Few coaches in the country are on a coaching seat hotter than Robinson's. He's won just seven games at SU, including two in Big East play. But the Orange, 2-10 last season, has grown tired of the criticism, and the players are pledging to win now.

"It's been a long time," said Curtis Brinkley, a senior running back. "That's all we've been practicing for is to win. This team — and this is my fourth year coming up — has a different attitude than the rest of the teams."

Brinkley will assist a backfield that had the second-worst rushing output in the nation last year. But Brinkley missed the final four games of the season with a broken right tibia. Also, sophomore Delone Carter suffered a dislocated hip, which forced him out for the entire year.

Brinkley and Carter are completely healthy, however, and following a strong spring from sophomore Doug Hogue, the backfield might be Syracuse's deepest position.

"I think the running back situation could be as strong as its been at Syracuse in a number of years," Robinson said.

For the backs to thrive, SU's offensive line needs to shine. Senior lineman Ryan Durand said the commitment has surpassed what he's seen the previous three years. The once-permeable unit is ready to create more holes for the running backs and keep incumbent starting quarterback Andrew Robinson on his feet. The line surrendered 54 sacks in 2007 — the second highest total in the nation.

"I just see the younger guys putting it together and really showing that they can be an asset this year," Durand said. "We're real hungry. I'm just excited to come out and see the team really blossom."

The fact that every media member selected Syracuse to finish last in the Big East preseason poll didn't matter to Arthur Jones. Even with loads of uncertainty on defense, the standout junior tackle hopes every opponent underestimates them.

"All of those polls, I don't even look at them," Jones said. "I know we've got a lot of talent. Rome wasn't built overnight, so I'm sure we can pull things together this year."

Most importantly, pull together for coach Robinson. Brinkley said no one deserves victories more than SU's current coach. And it's more than just bowl game or bust.

"Bowl game is a must," Brinkley said.

GOOD NEWS FOR COLLIER

The Orange's most-prized prospect from its 2008 recruiting class received an encouraging medical diagnosis Sunday.

Freshman running back Averin Collier said he may begin practicing with the team next week. The Churchville native fractured his left foot during the spring session. He suffered a small setback last month and underwent minor surgery to repair his foot.

Robinson said doctors believe Collier's rehabilitation is ahead of schedule. Already boasting a deep backfield, Robinson said it's too early to decide if Collier would be redshirted.

Collier, who was ranked as the top New York prospect by Rivals.com, rushed for 1,170 yards and 15 touchdowns on just 95 carries as a senior at Churchville-Chili High School.

EXTRA POINTS ...

Fans watching games at the Carrier Dome or on television will have an easier time identifying players. Gone are the navy blue home uniforms with orange numbers and lettering. The numbers and last names on the back of the jerseys will be in white. ... SU will have 28 practices to prepare for its season opener Aug. 30 at Northwestern. Kickoff is slated for noon, and the game will be broadcast live on ESPN2.