Greetings:

As I am originally from ROC and went to law school in SYR, I feel for you. There may be no way to avoid the RJ shuffle other than driving somewhere to catch mainline. How is CO out of SYR? I know it is probably all jungle jets, but the ride to CLE would be very short I would think. In any event, the SYR schedule might improve later in the year if you are set on staying with DL/NW. Good luck!

Safe Travels.