Its Game Time

(BOSTON COLLEGE vs #15 NEVADA, 9:00pm ESPN, KRAFT FIGHT HUNGER BOWL)

This time tomorrow the Boston College vs Nevada game will be coming down the stretch hopefully with Boston College ahead of the Pack. Excuse the pun. 9pm tomorrow 15,000 Nevada fans and 6,000 Boston College fans will jam into the home of the World Champion San Francisco Giants baseball stadium for a football showdown in the 1st annual Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl. Already the atmosphere is electric.

I have been in San Fran since Thursday morning and I have seen BC and Nevada fans everywhere. The constant jeering with each other creating a feel for what the game will be like, and if this game atmosphere is anything close to what it is just out in the street (which it will be) its going to be a fun time. Though the Nevada fans more than double Boston College followers, BC fans have been loud and proud and seemingly everywhere. I was up about 2 hours north of San Francisco at Point Reyes National Park, way out in the middle of nowhere, when all of a sudden I hear "Lets go Eagles! See you at the game!"

So here we are, on the eve of the big game, Boston College looking to get to 8-5 for the second straight season and prove all those naysayers wrong by beating 15th ranked Nevada in front of a pro-Wolf Pack crowd. So what are the keys to victory for Boston College?

The Defense has to stop an offense averaging 305.9 yards rushing and 42.6 points per game. Kuechly, Herzlich and Kevin Pierre-Louis and the other linebackers have to set the tone in this game. If the linebackers can help with stop the run game then the defensive line has to pressure the QB, something they have had issues with all year. However with senior Alex Albright returning to the D-Line for his last game, he will help the other less experienced linemen to force Nevada to rush throws and hopefully turn the ball over.

(BC's true Freshman QB, Chase Rettig)

That is the other key. BC cannot turn the ball over. The offense must have some sustaining drives to keep the defense rested and to do that, the must keep control of the ball. Freshman quarterback Chase Rettig had a crash course in being an NCAA division 1 quarterback this year and he matured very quickly. BC must help keep the pressure off Rettig by getting good chunks of yardage on first and second down through pounding the ball on the ground. Montel Harris will be in uniform for the Eagles along with surprising Freshman Andre Williams. If they can keep BC out of 3rd & long situations, the offense should be able to sustain their drives. Allow Rettig to utilize the play-action and get in a rhythm throwing the ball, and BC will win this game.

BC must keep their defense rested because they will be asked to do a lot tomorrow night. If Rettig can get comfortable and mix in a little passing with their already great ground game, BC can eat time off the clock and allow their best run-defense in the nation to stop Nevada's high octane offense and prevent them from jumping out to a big lead. If BC can get the lead and bleed the clock, they will win the game.

Its Game Time Eagle Nation.

WE ARE BC

Recruiting News

So since my last post, Boston College has landed a major recruit at the Cornerback position. BC will be welcoming Albert Jean Louis, a Brockton native, to school in February and he will join the team for spring practice. Jean Louis, a four star cornerback, committed to The U (Miami FL) originally but when coach Randy Shannon was fired, Jean Louis backed out and decided to sign with the hometown team. This is a great pick up for BC who have always lacked a lockdown corner.

(BC's newest Recruit)

Jean Louis is another piece to an already successful recruiting class put together by Spaz and the staff. He joins fellow four star linebackers Graham Stewart (Middletown, CT) and Stephen Daniels (Cincinnati, OH) who went to the same high school (St. Xavier) as Kuechly and Herzlich. Now picture this for the 2012 season….

MLBs: Kuechly, Sr. Pierre-Louis, Jr. OLBs: Stewart, So. Daniels, So.

SCARY. Thats why BC is becoming known as Linebacker U. Well maybe not THE Linebacker U, that belongs to Penn State but BC is pumping out NFL quality linebackers at a good clip.

I will be leaving to go to San Francisco in two days and will be in attendance at the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl, hopefully to see BC send Nevada home empty handed. I will try and provide updates on this blog whenever I can find internet connection.

Its less than a week until game day, hopefully Boston College will come ready to play and finish winners in what looked like a lost season.

WE ARE BC

Extension for Spaz

Its the most wonderful time of the year! Bowl week!

With bowl season three games in and the Beef O'Brady Bowl in progress there really hasn't been much to report considering they've all been blow outs (not counting Beef bowl). However there is some news out of Boston College….

BC has awarded Frank Spaziani with a two year contract extension for his success keeping the program together after Jeff Jagodzinski left the program in 2008. This new contract extension will extend Spaz's contract through 2015 as he still has three years left on his original deal. The next five years will be under the steady hand of coach Spaz.

(Spaz is all smiles this holiday season)

Now, this may upset some people who claim that Spaz is to conservative, and that he isn't cut out to be a head coach. What those people didn't realize is that after Jags left, Boston College football was left in shambles. After Jags last game coaching, quarterback Dominique Davis transferred, B.J. Raji and Ron Brace graduated and went on to be drafted in the 1st and 2nd round of the NFL draft, Mark Herzlich, Reigning ACC POY was diagnosed with cancer and recruits that had committed to Jags de-committed. Spaz was left in a tight spot.

In his first year as head coach of the Eagles, Spaz lead them to 8-4 record (6-1 at home) and a date with the USC Trojans in the Emerald Bowl. Though they fell to the Trojans 24-13 and dropping their record to 8-5, I would consider that a successful year. Sure you want to win the bowl game and play better on the road, but given the circumstances Spaziani did a bang up job.

(Rich Gunnel sets the all time mark at BC in

receiving yards with this catch against USC

in the Emerald Bowl 2009)

The second year would be the real test for coach Spaz. Coming into this season BC's receiving corps was inexperienced, the graduation of all time leading receiver in Boston College history Rich Gunnel left BC with one legitimate option in Colin Larmond Jr. Four star recruit, wide receiver Shakim Phillips, figured to make an immediate impact. Both went down with injuries in the preseason. So the stage was set for Spaz's sophomore campaign, an inexperienced offense lead by junior running back Montel Harris and a defense with a good mix of youth and experience lead by the emotion return of senior Mark Herzlich.

After they jumped out to a 2-0 start, the Eagles lost five straight and many began calling for coach Spaziani's head. In the face of unrelenting criticism and in danger of losing his job, Spaziani decided to make a change a the quarter back position. True freshman Chase Rettig was given the wheel and asked to lead the team. Fast forward to present and BC is sitting pretty in the post-season for the 13th consecutive year and a match-up with 14th ranked Nevada. Spaz was able to lead an injury plagued, inexperienced team to 5 consecutive wins to end the season. This man deserves to be the coach of Boston College for years to come and this was expressed by athletic director Gene DeFilippo.

(Athletic Director, Gene DeFilippo)

"Let me tell you, to bring the team back that was, 0-4 in the ACC and 2-5 overall, it gave us all an opportunity to see, first of al, how these players and coaches reacted to Spaz. The fact he did a terrific job of rallying them through all the injuries, all the young kids we played, I told him, 'You know Spaz, there'll be sometimes in the coming years when we'll win 10 or 11 games, but I'll always look back at 2010 and say that was probably your best coaching job,' because how it ended up."

With Spaz locked up until 2015 Boston College football is on the right track and in good hands. If Spaz can pull out a win against a tough Nevada team in the Kraft bowl it will only validate the decision to keep the defensive genius under contract.

Finals Week

Yeah, so I have finals this week so I won't be posting but I will try to do 3-4 posts per week up until the Kraft Bowl game vs Nevada.

But quick update as Im sure many of you already know:

Virginia Tech wins the ACC Championship game for the 3rd time in its 6 year history, I mean thats pretty good, but of course if BC had come to play in 07 & 08 they might be the leader in ACC titles since 05….

Despite the allegations and investigation into wether his father "sold" him to Auburn, QB Cam Newton wins the Heisman trophy. Newton threw for 28 passing TDs and ran for 20 TD's. He had a ridiculous passer rating of 188.16 and lead Auburn to an undefeated regular season, SEC title, and a showdown with Pac 10 champs Oregon and LaMichael James, in the BCS National Championship game January 10th.

Kuechly fell short of the Butkus award for best LB in the country. The award instead went to Texas a&m's Von Miller, despite having 112 tackles less than Kuech the Freak (Miller: 59 Kuechly: 112).

A little ACC basketball news. New coach Steve Donahue lead Boston College to a victory over defending ACC regular season champion Maryland, 79-75 down in College Park. This is Donahue's first ACC win, and the Eagles are now atop the conference with a 1-0 record in ACC play and an 8-2 overall record.

Thats all I've got for now. Be back posting December 21st most likely. Until then…

WE ARE BC

BC vs Nevada: Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl, January 9th 9pm ET

Boston College vs #14 Nevada

Mark your calendars (or book your plane tickets!) for San Francisco, AT&T Park, January 9th because BC has a date with #14 Nevada in the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl, 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. This will be the first meeting between the Eagles and the Wolfpack. BC comes into the Kraft bowl with a five game win streak and the nations best run defense while Nevada (12-1) comes into this game fresh off their overtime upset of then #4 Boise State, giving the Wolfpack a share of the WAC title. BC nation if you can go to this game, I urge you to go. We need to get rid of the reputation that the BC has a poor following.

WE ARE BC

Note: Luke Kuechly needs 21 tackles to set the NCAA single season tackle record. If he sets the record he will do it in one less game than the previous record holder Lawrence Flugence of Texas Tech, set in 2002.

Luke Kuechly: All-American Middle Linebacker

Thats right. Kuechly, who is leading the nation with 171 tackles including 101 solo tackles, was voted on to the 1st team All-America. As a sophomore. To put that into perspective, Matt Ryan didn't make 3rd team All-America and he lead BC during arguably its best year ever. BC fans, you are watching a very special player, one who might go down as the best BC defender in history. On Saturdays at the Aluminum Monster, you can be sure his name will be mentioned on the loudspeaker over a dozen times (he averages 14.7 tackles per game, including a 21 game streak with 10 or more tackles).

Not only was Kuechly named a 1st team All-American he was also named to the ACC 1st team along with teammates: Anthony Costanzo and Montel Harris. Montel had a fantastic last half of the season rushing for 100 yards 8 times and was the only unanimous selection to the ACC first team, getting 61 first team votes (the max). Harris and Andre Williams are going to be a deadly duo hopefully in whatever bowl game BC gets, but definitely next year.

(Luke Kuechly leads the nations best run defense)

With the regular season and the awards behind the Eagles, they are enjoying the rest of the week off and waiting to hear who their post-season opponent will be. (Side note: at the BC vs Indiana basketball game on Wednesday night Spaz walked by me and I shook his hand and congratulated him on the year. Damn he has a firm handshake). Now what bowl will BC be "bringing their talents (LeBron James "The Decision")" to?

There are three options for the Eagles, all have their benefits. Courtesy of the U, BC has a chance to land in the Sun Bowl in El Paso Texas. After losing their last game to South Florida, Miami fired coach Randy Shannon and in the process, scared away the heads of the Sun Bowl. Though this bowl isn't considered a major bowl, it is more prestigious than the other two options. If this was the case BC would most likely play an SEC team like Tennessee or Georgia.

The bowl that could select the Eagles is the Military Bowl in Washington D.C. The opponent for the Eagles has already been determined as the Military Bowl has taken Eastern Carolina. Now for those of you who watched the 2008 BC season you know what this means. ECU's quarterback is former BC quarterback Dominick Davis. After Chris Crane broke his collar bone against Wake Forest, Davis took over for the last game and the ACC Championship against Virginia Tech. Davis was average in that game and during the offseason decided to transfer from BC to ECU leaving BC in the quarterback predicament that we all suffered through over the past two years. It would be nice if BC could make Davis regret his decision and end his college career with a loss.

Last option, and most likely is the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl in San Francisco California against none other than #9 Boise State. That would be quite a way to end the year for the Eagles, playing a team in Boise State that until their loss last week at Nevada, could have played for the National Championship. However there have been talks about sending Boise to the Las Vegas Bowl to face #21 Utah and having #14 Nevada (Not sure of their actual rank) go to the Kraft Bowl. The heads of the Kraft Bowl have stated that unless Nevada could bring a larger fan base, they were sticking with Boise.

Now we play the waiting game.

WE ARE BC

Perfect Ending

There couldn't have been a more perfect ending to Boston College's season. Up 16-7 on the road against the Syracuse Orange with just over a minute remaining BC's defense needed one more stop. Who better to make that stop than number 94 himself, Mark Herzlich. The man who beat cancer and won the hearts of BC fans as well as the nation, ended BC's season and his regular season football career with an interception. Despite not being allowed to wear his signature eye black, (who the hell tells a guy who beat cancer what he can and can't do?) sealed the game, bringing BC's winning streak to five games, finishing with a 7-5 record.

(Thank you Mark Herzlich #94)

Spaziani has given the team the week off of practice so they can rest while they await to hear who their bowl opponent will be. A much needed rest for the Eagles and a chance to get healthy before their bowl game. Hopefully Montel Harris will be able to play in the bowl game because BC will definitely need him, but I think they struck gold on Saturday with Harris's backup.

(Andre Williams #34)

Freshman running back #34 Andre Williams took over the backfield duties against Syracuse in Harris's stead. All he did against the Orange was carry the ball 42 times for 185 yards and a touchdown. Not to mention Williams ran for over 100 yards last week against Virginia. If Williams is for real than BC football is in better shape than I thought. Williams running style reminds me a lot of Patriots running back Ben Jarvis Green-Ellis. When he gets the ball he runs straight up the field and doesn't dance around trying to find holes in the backfield. What a find for the Eagles.

One more thing from Saturday's game. BC proved once again that it has one of the best defenses in the country. In each of the games during their five game win streak BC's defense has allowed one touchdown or less. They are 6-1 on the year when allowing one touchdown or less (the lone loss coming against 12th ranked Virginia Tech).

Now we wait to see who BC draws in a bowl game. Oh yeah remember last post when I said we might play Boise State? Well they lost to Nevada so its looking like a real possibility.

WE ARE BC

After Wild Season, BC To Play in 12th Consecutive Bowl

Hello Eagle Nation,

It’s been a crazy up and down year. I'm just laughing to myself right now because never in my 20 years of going to BC football games have I experienced a year with so much turmoil. I mean never has a year of watching BC football been so stressful.

Even before the season started, Mark Herzlich is coming back from cancer, with a titanium rod in his leg, and he fractures his foot in practice. Like the guy worked his ass off to get back on a football field and he breaks his foot before the first Saturday and the injury report was that he might be out the first game or two. But being the animal that he is Marky Mark was like “Broken foot? Nah, screw that. I'm playin.”

And it didn’t stop there for Mark. No, it seems like the guy can’t catch a break. After triumphantly beating cancer (and a stress fracture) he was back flying around, making tackles and giving opposing quarterbacks nightmares with his war paint. But he breaks his hand during a game. But, remember, Animal. He wraps his injured hand turning it into a battle club making him look even more intimidating. I'm starting to think that he’s breaking his bones on purpose now just to get stronger. I don’t know just a thought.

But I mean that started before the first kickoff. After that there was the quarterback controversy, would it be Uncle Dave? Maybe Marscovetra? Or will Coach Spaz have to release his secret weapon Chase Rettig a year early?

BC was shut out at home for the first time in over a decade, losing 19-0 at home to Virginia Tech on parents weekend, and got blown out by N.C. State 44-13. I know this is a long list but this season deserves an in-depth look back.

Next on the long list is the Debacle at home against Notre Dame. An embarrassing game on national T.V. that BC lost in the first quarter when they went down 21-0. Then after cutting the lead to 21-10, Rettig is marching the offense down the field and….he takes a funny step and hurts his knee, out for two weeks. This game was the tipping point for the fans and attendance began to decline.

The student run newspaper, "the Heights", were encouraging students to quit on the season, saying there was no hope for this year. That for me was the low point on the season, students around campus talking all doom and gloom about this team leading to a football player saying to a friend in the lunch line, "Im sick of football."

But unlike the flip flopping writers of "the Heights", I still had faith that once Rettig got going BC would rattle off a few wins and make it to the post season. A couple close loses to Florida State and Maryland, had more and more fans dropping out and by the time the Clemson game came around, only the true fans were left in the stands at the Aluminum Monster.

Then all of a sudden, BC beats Clemson and gets the Leather Helmet trophy with Montel Harris winning MVP on his birthday. The win train kept rolling, defeating Wake Forest and holding off Duke in dramatic fashion. Bringing Boston College's record to 5-5 with a home game against lowly Virginia on senior day.

BC didn't disappoint. They came back and won a wild game 17-13 to clinch a winning home record, at least .500 season and most importantly: a birth in a bowl game. But of course this season is no ordinary season and the win came at a price. Montel Harris injured his knee and required arthroscopic surgery and will be out 3-6 weeks, ruling him out for the season finale at Syracuse and putting him in question for what ever bowl BC gets into.

If BC can grab a win from the Orange and finish the season 7-5 they will most likely end up in the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl (Previously the Emerald Bowl) and would for the second year in a row be heading out to San Francisco. Their two possible opponents? #19 Nevada or gulp…#4 Boise State.

But hey I'm not complaining cause after all in the last decade Boise State has only lost 15 times. One of those loses? At home to Boston College in the MPC Computers bowl. Lets Go Eagles.

We're Going Bowling

As the final seconds ticked off the clock at the Aluminum Monster, BC fans finally realized: Boston College football will be playing in December/January. A season full of twists and turns, ups and downs, injuries and surprises, Boston College finally got to the magic number of 6 wins and qualified for bowl eligibility for the 12th year in a row…

TO BE CONTINUED...

BC Comes Up Big In Durham

Good Afternoon Eagle Nation,

Wow. That was an exciting game. For those of you who missed it, Boston College just beat Duke 21-16 down in North Carolina to move to 5-5 on the season and 3-4 in the conference. After Montel Harris fumbled inside the 10 and Duke returned it for a 95 yard touchdown, Duke got the ball back and marched it down to the BC 4 yard line. Did anyone ever doubt BC's defense in this game? They held Duke on four straight plays including a batted down pass at the line of scrimmage on fourth down to clinch it.

BC's defense didn't allow a touchdown for the second time in three games and it was the fifth time allowing either one touchdown or less. Kuechly was an animal as always, keeping his double digit tackle streak alive as well as earning the nickname "superman" from the announcers on the radio and on ESPN 3. Max Holloway continued his progression as BC's best pass rusher getting two sacks and a handful of tackles for a loss, also sealing the game by knocking down the Duke pass on 4th and goal.

This was a coming out party for Chase Rettig who completed 12 out of 24 passes for 230 yards, two TDs and no picks, averaging almost a first down every throw (9.6 yards per pass). Rettig minimized mistakes, didn't turn the ball over and kept plays alive with his feet including a 44 yard TD pass on the opening drive of the second half to fellow freshmen Bobby Swigert where Rettig evaded tacklers before stepping up in the pocket and finding wide open Swigert. A huge step for Mr. Rettig.

One troubling part of the game was Montel Harris. Despite his 20th 100 yard rushing performance of his career and a touchdown run, he had his first two fumble game of his career, both fumbles coming inside the red zone and one being returned 95 yards to the house. Coming into this game Harris has over 700 carries in his career and only 4 fumbles so this hasn't been a nagging issue but one of his other fumbles came on the goal line against Notre Dame last year that could have won BC the game. BC's defense bailed them out of this game but Montel can't keep fumbling in these critical situations.

BC comes back home to face Virginia, the last game at Alumni this year, with bowl eligibility on the line. Lets get it done, extend the win streak to four games in a row and the bowl streak to 12 years in a row.

WE ARE BC

Don't Mess with BC's Defense. Seriously. Don't do it.

Good Evening Eagle Nation,

A couple things. BC beat Wake Forest for its second win in a row. Rettig still has a long way to go. Montel could be BC's best running back ever. BC has a Championship caliber defense. Thats right. CHAMPIONSHIP CALIBER. Despite one hiccup on a trick play against Wake Forest the defense was absolutely rock solid. Wasn't that picture adorable? Thought so. For the forth time this year BC's defense allowed one touchdown or less, including games against Virginia Tech, Clemson and Kent State. The one touchdown the defense allowed was a pass and it wasn't even thrown by the quarterback.

After intercepting Wake's quarterback Tanner Price four times, the Eagles are tied with #22 Florida for 1st in the nation with 17 interceptions as a team. Oh and by the way, since 2000 BC is second in the country in interceptions with 198. The only team with more? Virginia Tech. Yeah, I think thats pretty good, suck it other power houses of football BC's defense will destroy you. Any Questions?

Another impressive stat for this defense, is that they are third in the country in turnovers forced with 26 behind Hawaii (29) and #1 Oregon (28). Led by stud linebacker Luke Kuechly aka Keek the Freak, with the nations best 13.78 tackles per game and a pair of INTs, BC has a legit shot to win out this year. (P.S. notice in that last clip Uncle Dave was one of the first ones over to help Kuechly up after his INT, very classy Dave).

Montel Harris broke some more BC rushing records this past week. With his 100 yard rushing performance he became BC's leader in 100 yard rushing games (19), he surpassed Derick Knight in carries with 709, and became the most prolific running back in ACC history through the first three years with 3,377 yards rushing. In english? Montel is a star. Is he the best running back in Boston College history? If he stays for his senior season (which he will) he might end up holding all of Boston College's rushing records, a strong argument for the best all time.

But with running backs like Mike Cloud (single season rushing record 1,726 yards) Derick Knight and stud William Green, I think it would be rash to say that he is the best BC has ever seen. After all Harris is 0-2 in bowl games while both Green and Knight won a bowl in every year they played at the Heights. I still think Mike Cloud or William Green are the top two backs I've seen play at BC. I'd put Montel slightly behind Derick Knight in fourth, but lets see how the rest of his career plays out and he might end up being #1.

Chase Rettig had another tough outing against Wake Forest. Some one needs to console him and calm him down. (Sorry for all the Spongebob but its just classic). Joking aside he still needs to make large strides in leading this offense and cut down on the turnovers. Montel has been picking up the slack but sooner or later Rettig has to start making plays when it counts, whether that be a third down conversion, or just throwing the ball out of bounds and living to fight another day, he has to step up and be a leader for this offense.

Well another great win from your Eagles. Who would've predicted a two game win streak after the horrible start they had? I did (3rd to last paragraph). Anyway BC will travel for the first time down to Durham, North Carolina to face the high scoring Duke Blue Devils. BC's defense will have its hands but Duke is by no means the toughest offense BC has faced. We'll probably see minor improvements from Rettig but expect Montel to carry the offense again. BC will come out with the victory and come back to Chestnut Hill for the home finale and a spot in a bowl game on the line.

Oh I forgot this the first time, Congrats Joe Paterno on becoming the first coach to 400 wins, keep coaching as long as you can Joe Pa.

WE ARE BC

Week 9 Prediction Results:

ACC: 3-2 Big 10: 4-1 Big 12: 1-5 Big East: 0-1 SEC: 7-1 Pac 10: 4-1 Other Top 25: 3-0

OVERALL: 22-11

Weekly Predictions (Week 9)

ACC:

Boston College (3-5) at Wake Forest (2-6) 3:30pm: Boston College by 7

North Carolina (5-3) at #24 Florida St. (6-2) 3:30pm: Florida State by 10

#25 NC State (6-2) at Clemson (4-4) 12:00pm: Clemson by 3

Maryland (6-2) at Miami (5-3) 12:00pm: Maryland by 7

Virginia (4-4) at Duke (1-7) 12:00pm: Virginia by 10

Big 10:

Illinois (5-3) at Michigan (5-3) 12:00pm: Illinois by 7

#16 Iowa (6-2) at Indiana (4-4) 12:00pm: Iowa by 14

#9 Wisconsin (7-1) at Purdue (4-4) 12:00pm: Wisconsin by 14

Minnesota (1-8) at #14 Michigan St (8-1) 12:00pm: Michigan St. by 17

Northwestern (6-2) at Penn State (5-3) 3:30pm: Penn St. by 10 (Joe Paterno goes for his 400th win as a coach)

Big East:

Louisville (4-4) at Syracuse (6-2) 12:00pm: Syracuse by 7

Big 12:

#21 Baylor (7-2) at #17 Oklahoma St. (7-1) 12:30pm: Baylor by 3

Colorado (3-5) at Kansas (2-6) 2:00pm: Colorado by 3

#7 Nebraska (7-1) at Iowa St. (5-4) 3:30pm: Nebraska by 14

#8 Oklahoma (7-1) at Texas a&m (5-3) 7:00pm: Oklahoma by 10

Texas (4-4) at Kansas St. (5-3) 8:00pm: Texas by 7

#12 Missouri (7-1) at Texas Tech (4-4) 8:00pm: Missouri by 7

SEC:

Florida (5-3) at Vanderbilt (2-6) 12:30pm: Florida by 14

Idaho St. (1-7) at Georgia (4-5) 12:30pm: Georgia by 14

Charleston Southern (2-6) at Kentucky (4-5) 12:30pm: Kentucky by 10

Chattenooga (5-3) at #2 Auburn (9-0) 1:00pm: Auburn by 24

#6 Alabama (7-1) at #10 LSU (7-1) 3:30pm: LSU by 3

Louisiana-Lafayette (2-6) at Mississippi (3-5) 7:00pm: Ole Miss by 10

#18 Arkansas (6-2) at #19 South Carolina (6-2) 7:00pm: South Carolina by 7

Tennessee (2-6) at Memphis (1-7) 8:00pm: Tennessee by 7

Pac 10:

Washington (3-5) at #1 Oregon (8-0) 3:30pm: Oregon by 28

California (4-4) at Washington St. (1-8) 4:00pm: Cal by 10

Oregon St. (4-3) at UCLA (3-5) 7:00pm: Oregon St. by 7

#15 Arizona (7-1) at #13 Stanford 8:00pm: Stanford by 7

Arizona St. (4-4) at USC (5-3) 10:30pm: USC by 10

Other Top 25 Games:

#23 Nevada (7-1) at Idaho (4-4) 5:00pm: Nevada by 14

Hawaii (7-2) at #4 Boise St. (7-0) 3:30pm: Boise St. by 17

GAME OF THE WEEK: #3 TCU (9-0) at #5 Utah (8-0) 3:30pm: TCU by 7

Down the Stretch they Come

Good Afternoon Eagle Nation,

The Demon Deacons await down in North Carolina. Another must win football game. Bowl eligibility hangs in the balance. Who will step up for the Eagles? Will the o-line provide the running lanes for Montel Harris? Will Rettig continue to mature into a Starter? Will the defense continue their hot streak? These are all questions BC fans have as we head down the backstretch.

The 2-6 Demon Deacons had a rough showing last week, actually rough is an understatement, it was like this. They lost 62-14 against Maryland last Saturday. Ouch.

The Eagles must win 3 out of their last four games to become bowl eligible for the 13th straight year. To do this they must beat three of at Wake Forest (2-6), at Duke (1-7), Virginia (4-4) and at Syracuse (6-2). BC should beat Duke and should handle Virginia at home, albeit Virginia is coming off a win over #22 Miami last week. That makes this game a must win and they should win against the 2-6 Demon Deacons. But this is a trap game.

BC can't look ahead assuming that they will win their next two games and face Virginia at home to qualify for a bowl win. Wake Forest isn't strong this year after losing many players to graduation last year, including Senior quarterback and school record holder in completion percentage and passing yards Riley Skinner. But then again BC isn't strong this year either and are 0-2 on the road.

If they are going to get that ideal scenario of playing for a bowl berth at home, they mustn't take Wake Forest lightly. The offense must step up and burry the Demon Deacons early in the game, control the ball by controlling the line of scrimmage and open up the lanes for Montel to run. That way Wake has to respect the run and open up the passing game for Rettig and the inexperienced receiving core.

BC fans can catch the game on espn3.com. Lets go win this game.

WE ARE BC

WE HAVE VICTORY!!!!!

FINALLY!

It has been 49 days since we have last tasted victory and over a year since our last ACC win. BC snaps its five game losing streak and moves to 3-5 (1-3 ACC) with this win and avoids its longest losing streak (6) in 12 years. More importantly it keeps BC in bowl contention, needing to win 3 out of the last 4 games (with games against Wake Forest 2-6, Duke 1-6,Virginia 4-4, and Syracuse 6-2, it is possible to get to 6-6 and get to a bowl game).

(Coach Spaz Holding the O'Rourke, McFaddon trophy with MVP Montel being hoisted up by his teammates in the background, wearing the MVP Leather Helmet)

I had a blog post set up for Friday but I didnt have the chance to finish. All I said was that I was done feeding you statistics on why you should have hope for these Eagles. This was it. But Also BC vs Clemson is more than just a regular ACC game on the schedule. No. This was "The Battle for the Leather Helmet", a rivalry game. More importantly a rivalry game that in its two year history BC had failed to win. This was a must win for the Eagles on multiple levels. Even if the Eagles fall short of a bowl game this year, we still won "The Battle for the Leather Helmet", we have that trophy for the whole year.

First off let me talk about the Super Fans. Wow. Attendance has been declining for the past few weeks as the team has been struggling. I have been very critical of this. On Saturday you could see more Purple and Orange than Maroon and Gold and after the first play (INT by Rettig returned to the house 7-0 Clemson), it sounded like there were more of them too. But for the rest of the game the BC Super Fans and the rest of the Aluminum Monster was rocking. I have been to hard on the student section the past two weeks. The ones that actually showed up had amazing energy all game and helped will this team to their first win since week 2.

Two weeks ago at Florida State, the defense played out of their minds and almost single handedly won the game. Then the next week the defense was poor and the offense finally provided some support in a losing effort. This week they finally put it all together. The defense added to their top ten interception count with two more including one by Kuechly to seal the game. They only allowed 42 rushing yards and most importantly zero touchdowns allowed.

Rettig showed his maturity and bounced back after the INT on the third play and played mistake free football throwing for 136 yards and one touchdown. Montel Harris won the MVP of the Leather Helmet game, rushing for 142 yards on 36 carries, with a 36 yard receiving touchdown on his birthday.

(Montel Harris rushed for 142 yards on his way to MVP of the game)

BC finally played 100% on both sides of the ball and came out with this huge win. They travel to North Carolina next Saturday to face the 2-6 Wake Forest Demon Deacons. For the fans who showed up the last two weeks, well done, the team needed you and you were there. For those of you who had tickets but skimped out, as my friend told me after the Clemson game, "The people who didn't show up were just filling anyway, they didn't care about the team or the game." These past few weeks have shown who the real fans are vs the fair weather fans and if you skipped the last two games because they were struggling, you will never be a real BC fan. BC will carry this momentum into next week, they will pull out the win and get one game closer to bowl eligibility.

WE ARE BC

BC vs Maryland Post Game Reaction

Frustrating, Exciting, Promising, Disappointing. These are just some of the adjectives that could describe BC's game against Maryland. After a hard loss at home to the Terps, BC is left with their longest losing streak (five) in over a decade, when they lost six in a row in 1998.

Watching this game was like a roller-coaster ride, with lows of going down 24-7 and the highest point, in a 24-21 game with 5:23 left in the 4th after a huge stop by the defense, Montel Harris returns a punt into Maryland territory. This game was one of the more frustrating games I have recently been too, because BC did some very good things and some very bad things. At this point in the season though, you want the inconsistent play to be hammered out. This game to me seemed more like a season opener, where a team is still knocking out the rust, than a mid season ACC match up.

It started with a Maryland punt, then a Montel Harris 9 yard run. Then Rettig throws two bad incompletions and BC is forced to punt. Three and outs have been the story of the year for this offense, the longest BC drive coming into this game was 3:31 against Florida State. Next Maryland marches down the field on a BC defense that seemed invincible against Florida State. A 13 play, 6:05 minute, 48 yard touchdown drive for the Terps.

Our top ten run defense lived up to its billing, allowing only 43 yards rushing and zero touchdowns on the ground. Unfortunately our 93rd ranked pass defense lived down to its ranking, allowing true freshmen quarterback Danny O'Brien throw for 179 yards and 3 touchdowns. On that first Maryland TD drive, O'Brien threw for 35 yards on 6 for 8 passing and a four yard touchdown to cap it off. They let a true freshmen pick them apart and gain confidence early on in the game, and he continued to find open receivers all game.

After that negative, BC had its best drive all year, caped by a Chase Rettig touchdown pass. The drive started at their own 25 with 5:18 left in the first quarter and concluded with a touchdown at the 12:09 minute mark of the second quarter. An 8:09 minute, 15 play, 75 yard touchdown drive, by far the longest of the year (both time and distance). My thoughts: Ok Rettig's got this under control, the Maryland drive was just a hiccup for the defense. BC's got this game. Wrong.

O'Brien continued to air it out against a lack luster BC secondary and by the end of the first half it was Maryland: 21 Boston College: 7. I was ready to declare full on crisis mode if BC couldn't do anything in the second half. The defense was bipolar, playing like a championship team in Tallahassee against 5th year senior quarterback Christian Ponder, and in the first half against of this game, they made freshmen O'Brien look like a senior. The offense couldn't get things going at all, receivers dropping passes, running game failing to open up anything through the air. And losing 21-7 against a Maryland team that hadn't beating a quality opponent this year, in the Aluminum Monster.

But BC once again gave me hope when, after going down 24-7, they came roaring back to make it a 24-21 game with 5:23 left to play, with the ball in Maryland territory, all three timeouts, and all the momentum. But as quickly as they turned it around, BC's offense turned back into the stagnant unit it had been all year, going for it on fourth down the next two drives and failing to convert. Final score MD: 24 BC: 21

Well here we sit at 2-5. I have been saying all year, "wait till Rettig plays, just wait and BC will turn things around." Two and a half games later, still no result. BC hasn't had a solid team effort for the full sixty minutes this year, when the defense comes up big, the offense never capitalizes, and when the offense finally gives something to the defense, they become complacent and allow teams to walk all over them.

Rettig showed what kind of a quarterback and leader he can be and continues to gain confidence, but still made some very bad mistakes, one being the horrible INT he threw on a drive before half time that could have given Freese a chance to kick a field goal (turned out to be the deciding factor).

BC needs to win out to have a winning record this year, not likely, and to keep their bowl streak of 12 straight years with an appearance alive they need to win four of the last five games, possible. They play ACC opponents Duke and Wake Forest on the road as well as non-conference, old Big East Rival Syracuse at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse New York. All winnable games with Wake Forest being the toughest opposition from that list. They also play a weak Virginia team at home which has to be a win for Boston College. However if BC loses against its next opponent, all of those games become a must win for the Eagles.

ACC rival Clemson comes to town next week for the annual "Leather Helmet Game". This young rivalry game has produced some dramatic moments. Two years ago at Chestnut Hill, BC had a 21-20 lead late in the game when C.J. Spiller busted an 80 yard run to set up the winning touchdown and giving Clemson the 1st Leather Helmet of this series. 27-21 Clemson. Last year at Death Valley during a bizarre day that had two thunder delays, Clemson came out on top 22-3 in a defensive battle.

I have been looking forward to this game all year long. BC has yet to claim the Leather Helmet in this series and this upcoming game on Saturday, is arguably the most important for the Eagles. If they can pull out a win at home against a tough Clemson side, not only will they finally get to hoist the rivalry trophy that eluded them two years ago, but it will give this team momentum going into the final stretch of of three road games and only one home game, keeping BC's hopes of a winning season and a bowl game alive.

The only way this can happen is for BC to show up as a team, and give a full effort on both sides of the ball for 60 minutes. There is no more looking forward or "wait till…" That time has passed. If BC is going to do anything this season it has to start on Saturday at home vs Clemson. No result against Clemson, no bowl game. Its that simple. Win or go home.

WE ARE BC

Notes:

-Montel Harris becomes only the fourth Eagle to reach 3,000 yards rushing in a career, with his 116 yard effort against Maryland. He also becomes the first to accomplish this feat in his junior season. He is now 4th all time on the BC rushing list.

-Luke Kuechly lead the Eagles with 15 tackles against the Terps on Saturday. He extends the nations longest double digit tackle streak to 16 games in a row. He also leads the country in tackles and tackles per game with a 13.67 average going into the Maryland game.

-BC lost senior captains Wes Davis (Neck) and Alex Albright (Foot) to injuries on Saturday. The news so far is that both of them are done for the year, a huge blow to the Eagles. Also injured in the game, senior cornerback and return man, DeLeon Gause (Knee). The severity of his injury is unknown at this point.

BC vs FSU Post Game Reaction

Yes, I know this post is really late, I had a busy week of tests and papers but not to fear! I am back to analyze BC's performance last Saturday and tell BC fans why they should expect things to turn around starting this week.

Watching the game, a couple things jumped out at me. The first, happened on the first play of the game, Montel Harris busts up the middle for a 72 yard run (Two years earlier Harris busted a 42 yard run (first play in video) on the very first play in Tallahassee, leading an upset of then #19 Seminoles).

Why is this significant? Well besides the fact that Harris couldn't get any running room against NC State, Notre Dame and Virginia Tech, it showed that Florida State respects Chase Rettig. Thats right, I believe the presence of Rettig affected the Florida State defense.

After watching film on Boston College all week, Florida State must have known that on First down BC runs it 66% of the time and passes it only 33% of the time. It wouldn't be considered a bold move to stack the box against the run on first down.

However, Florida State didn't dial up any blitz packages and had four defensive backs guarding against the pass. I think it was apparent that FSU's defensive coordinator Mark Stoops respected Rettig's ability to beat them with the pass despite the fact that this was only the second start for the BC freshmen (First ACC game as well).

I have seen with Rettig in the game, the field opens up more for the BC offense because of the big play threat he brings to the table (as Notre Dame found out the hard way on a 58 yard touchdown strike). This is what I have been saying all year, when Shinskie and Marscovetra were in the game the opposing defenses would send eight to nine guys to stop the run because there wasn't the threat of even a 15-20 yard pass. BC's running woes were a direct result of not having a legitimate threat at the quarterback position, not the play calling or the o-line. All the people bashing the offensive line for their skill and effort should think twice about laying blame on one of the only constant parts of this team.

Chase also brings another aspect to the table that I believe has been over looked thus far by everyone. He plays mistake free football.

Rettig has dropped back to pass 34 times in his two starts and has had zero turnovers. One touchdown, zero interceptions and zero fumbles. Now some people may say "Hold on a minute. There were several times that Rettig held onto the ball for too long and got sacked." True, this is to be expected though as he progresses into a Division 1 college athlete. However, while it was a problem, I wouldn't call it a mistake. I would much rather that he hold onto the ball and take a sack if nothing is open, than force it into double coverage like his predecessors. His decision making thus far seems pretty advanced for a true freshmen and this only bodes well for BC.

The biggest thing that jumped out at me though was the defensive performance. Now I said last week that in some circles, Florida State senior quarterback Christian Ponder was considered a legit Heisman candidate. Now I don't know if those people watch college football but BC made Ponder look like a freshmen last Saturday.

BC once again has an outstanding defense this year, tied for eighth in the country with 11 interceptions and is ranked number 10 in the country in run defense for the fourth or fifth time this decade. Lead by sophomore linebacker Luke Kuechly, who is leading the nation in both tackles and tackles per game. The defense is the only reason why BC almost upset FSU in Tallahassee, scoring the only touchdown of the game for Boston College on an INT return by Jim Noel (One of two picks on the day) who was subbing in for the suspended Dominick LeGrande.

Overall I was very happy with the performance of the team, it was a tough loss and one that could have kept BC in the hunt for the ACC Atlantic crown. Now, barring a total collapse by Florida State, BC's title hopes are pretty much done, but a bowl game for the 12th straight year is still in the cards. With the schedule they have left, it wouldn't be far fetched to think BC could win out and make a respectable bowl game. I saw more positives than negatives in a valiant effort on the road against the best team in the ACC this year.

BC is back at home this week against a good, but not great Maryland team (4-2). Rettig will have to make some plays because they can't keep relying on the defense to keep them in games.

This one should be good. (Game Preview post coming later today).

WE ARE BC

Last weeks Picks: 17-10 (ACC: 5-2) (Big 10: 3-2) (Big 12: 3-3) (SEC: 4-2) (Pac 10: 2-1)

BC vs FSU Live Blog

Live Updates from Doak Campbell Stadium.

***UPDATE***

First play from scrimmage for BC Montel Harris busted a 72 yard run into the red zone. Eerily similar to the first play from scrimmage two years ago with Harris busting a 60+ yard run that led to an early lead.

***UPDATE***

Nate Freese drills a 38 yard field goal, 3-0 BC.

BC looks like a team on a mission.

***UPDATE***

BC's defense forces a Florida State 3 & out, impressive defensive stand for the Eagles.

***UPDATE***

Harris breaks another HUGE run, I think he is already over 100 yards rushing in the first four minutes of the game. Florida State has already allowed more rushing yards then they average allowing in the first quarter.

***UPDATE***

Nate Freese hits a 37 yard field goal, 6-0 BC. Very impressive performance all around, special teams, offense and defense clicking on all cylinders. Its still very early but if BC's defense can have another strong series Im putting this game on upset alert!

***UPDATE***

BC's defense forces another 3 & out, Alex Albright with the sack on 3rd down to force the punt. UPSET ALERT UPSET ALERT UPSET ALERT

***UPDATE***

3 & out for the BC offense, wish they had called a more creative play on 3rd and 2 then a dive to Harris, everyone in the stadium knew that was coming.

***UPDATE***

Touchdown Florida State 7-6. A mix of terrible refereeing and an incredibly fluky bounce on 3rd and 5 leads to the FSU touchdown. BC is dominating this game but find themselves down by 1 with under a minute left in the 1st quarter.

END OF THE 1st QUARTER. FSU LEADS 7-6.

This is gonna be a good one.

***UPDATE***

Another punt for the BC offense. Florida State is figuring out this BC run game and stacking the box, forcing Rettig to make plays. He converted on 3rd and medium distance but couldn't convert again. BC punts, Florida State's Reid has a negative 16 yard return inside the 10 yard line.

***UPDATE***

INTERCEPTION DONNIE FLECHER FOR BOSTON COLLEGE

BC takes over in Florida State territory at the 40 yard line.

-Boston College goes 3 & out, two runs to Harris and a sack on 3rd and 9. BC's Ryan Quigly punts and pins FSU inside the 10 on the 6 yard line.

***UPDATE***

BC's defense forces another 3 & out and take over at their own 45 yard line. Gary Tranquil has to start dialing in the passes, Montel has zero room to run.

***UPDATE***

Yet another 3 & out for Boston College, Rettig sacked on 3rd and 9 and fell funny. Rettig limps off the field. This would be disastrous for Boston College. Quigly Shanks a terrible punt to give FSU decent field position.

***UPDATE***

BC forces a FSU 3 & out after an FSU false start on 1st down put them at 1st and long. BC takes over deep in their own territory.

***UPDATE***

BC had a long sustained drive that ended on a terrible non-call where it should have been pass interference on the Noles. Quigly pins FSU inside their own 5 but FSU is marching down the field, currently inside BC territory.

***UPDATE***

FLORIDA STATE TOUCHDOWN. 14-6 FSU

The seminoles put together a very impressive drive but the referees are clearly favoring the hometown team aiding them on their touchdown drive. Awful awful calls.

HALFTIME: FLORIDA STATE 14 BOSTON COLLEGE 6

BC fans (including myself) have to be pleased with the teams effort on the road in a hostile environment with a true freshmen quarterback. After going up 6-0 the offense has grinned to a halt. They have to get something going with Rettig in the 3rd quarter. The defense is great today, couldn't be happier with their effort. If the offense can get some more diversity in their play calls and the refs stop giving FSU all the calls, this is a very winnable game for the Eagles.

***UPDATE***

BC kicks off to FSU, Jim Noel picks off FSU returns it to the 15 yard line. Another 3 & out. Nate Freese with another field goal from the 28 yard line.

FLORIDA STATE 14 BOSTON COLLEGE 9

***UPDATE***

BC can't move the ball at all. Another 3 & out and a bad punt this time for Quigly. FSU currently inside the BC 30.

***UPDATE***

FLORIDA STATE FIELD GOAL

FLORIDA STATE 17 BOSTON COLLEGE 9

***UPDATE***

TOUCHDOWN BOSTON COLLEGE

Pick six Jim Noel, a Massachusetts kid from Everett. Second interception of the day for Noel, and third interception thrown by Christian Ponder.

FLORIDA STATE 17 BOSTON COLLEGE 16

***UPDATE***

FLORIDA STATE FUMBLE RECOVERED BY BOSTON COLLEGE DAMIK SCAFFE.

Boston College first and 10 around midfield.

END OF THE 3rd QUARTER. FLORIDA STATE 17 BOSTON COLLEGE 16

BC has the ball inside the Florida State 25 yard line to start the fourth.

Nate Freese hits a 38 yard field goal and is now 4-4 on the day.

BC LEADS FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE THE 1st QUARTER.

BOSTON COLLEGE 19 FLORIDA STATE 17

***UPDATE***

Florida State marched down the field to set up a 42 yard touchdown on a reverse play for Reid.

FLORIDA STATE 24 BOSTON COLLEGE 19

***UPDATE***

Chase Rettig shows why he has so much hype, stepping up on 3rd and long and delivered a strike to Chris Pantale for a first down. However BC goes three and out after that and punts the ball away down to the 22 yard line of the Seminoles. 8:42 left in the fourth, if BC is going to win this game their defense has to come up big one more time on this next series.

***UPDATE***

4th and 1 inside field goal range for FSU, 2:10 left and BC has 1 timeout. Florida State took a time out. Next play decides the game….

***UPDATE***

Florida State goes for it on 4th and 1 gets it. BC challenges, play upheld, Florida State is running out the clock, it looks like this one is over. Overall I'm very pleased with BC's performance today, a huge jump from the last few weeks. Post game reaction post to come later this weekend. Until next time keep the faith BC Nation, good things are in our future.

FINAL SCORE: FLORIDA STATE 24 BOSTON COLLEGE 19

BC vs FSU Preview

Here are some facts:

-Montel Harris has never lost to Florida State.

-Since joining the ACC in 2005, Boston College is 2-0 playing at Florida State.

-In the last four years BC is 3-1 vs the Seminoles.

-Florida State starting quarterback Christian Ponder has never beat Boston College.

-In Tom O'Brien's 14 years as a head coach, a fullback has never run the ball. (Link)

-All this will change (except the Tom O'Brien thing probably).

Lets face it, Boston College is severely out matched this week. They go into Tallahassee 21 1/2 point underdogs with their longest losing streak in 12 years against a team ESPN's college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit says "might be the best team I've seen all year." Yes and it keeps getting worse. Florida State has scored at least 31 points in all five of their wins, -the lone loss coming against #10 Oklahoma on the road- for the past three weeks lead the country in sacks, and the last four weeks have only allowed 10.3 points per game. In the past three weeks for BC, they have scored a combined 30 points and have a true freshmen quarterback starting this week. Not an ideal match up for a team who cant score points to go up against a team that scores in bunches and doesn't allow more than 10 points per game.

And what about Rettig? His first start was against BC most hated rivals, Notre Dame, at night on ESPN. Gets injured on a misstep, out for the second half and against NC State. His second start? Once again on ESPN (how that happened I dont know), against arguably the best team in the ACC -the only ranked team in the ACC- Florida State at the most hostile environment BC will travel to all year. Welcome to Division I College Football Chase.

(Rettig will have his hands full against a talented FSU defense)

In the long term this will be good for Chase, giving him valuable experience dealing with adversity and being thrust into the spotlight and asked to perform. While I don't doubt Rettig's ability to lead this team -Can't wait to see what he can do on Saturday- there are too many problems with this offensive unit. Inexperienced receivers dropping passes, a porous O-line and more than questionable play calling by Gary Tranquil will be too much for this talented freshmen to overcome.

Looking at this game going into the year I thought one area BC would have an advantage in, and be able to rely on against a stout Florida State defense was their run game. However in five games this year Montel Harris has carried the ball 96 times for 387 rushing yards and 1 touchdown. Florida State's dynamic running back tandem, sophomore Chris Thompson and junior Jermaine Thomas, have rushed for 421 yards 4 touchdowns on 47 carries and 386 yards and 6 touchdowns on 65 carries respectively.

(The speedy Thompson will be hard to catch)

BC, who held Virginia Tech's potent running back duo to under 100 yards, will have to slow down Florida State's rushing attack and force them to beat us through the air. No simple task. Senior quarterback Christian Ponder, a Heisman candidate in some circles, has already thrown for 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns. BC's defense must have a signature performance this Saturday if there is any hope of victory. However if BC cuts off the run, FSU will beat them with the pass. Simply put, Florida State will be the best team Boston College faces all season.

Realistically the best thing Boston College will do this weekend is put in a respectable showing against a vastly superior Florida State team. FSU will no doubt be motivated when their Atlantic division rivals come to town, with a win Florida State become bowl eligible and finally beat Boston College at home for the first time since BC's inception into the ACC in 2005. However BC fans there is reason for hope.

With Rettig back he should jump start the offense and continue to grow and gain experience for the future. Montel will benefit most from Chase's return, if the pass game opens up so will the running lanes. It can't get much worse for the Eagles this season, being shut out at home for the first time since '98 and the worst losing streak in over a decade, things should begin to turn in BC's favor. After FSU, Boston College plays Maryland and Clemson at home, then they travel to Wake Forest and Duke before coming home for their home finale against Virginia and concluding the season on the road against Syracuse. All winnable games and I'm saying right now that BC WILL MAKE A BOWL GAME.

I have cautious optimism for this weekend against FSU. Florida State will most likely win but BC will put up a respectable performance. But don't be surprised if BC stays perfect in Tallahassee, I'm not putting this game on upset alert (or am I?) but if Rettig can play like he did on his last couple series against ND, Saturday, October 16th could be a day to remember for BC fans and the start of a Boston College legend.

"When you haven't played [in college] you get caught up in the whole experience. But when I got out there, it was the same game I have played my entire life."-Chase Rettig (Boston Globe).

WE ARE BC

Weekly Predictions

I had a rough week last week picking the ACC games but Im going to rebound big time this week. Ill also include Big 10, Big 12, SEC and PAC 10 games as well as other ranked teams outside those conferences. Here we go…

ACC:

12:00 PM: Boston College (2-3) at #16 Florida State (5-1): Florida State by 17

-Florida State is now the best Florida team after they dismantled the U and a Florida Gators loss. The key to the game is how effective can Boston College's run game be against a very tough defense. BC has too many question marks going into Tallahassee. Despite a 2-0 record at Doak Campbell stadium since they joined the ACC in 2005, expect the Eagles to lose this one.

12:00 PM: North Carolina State (5-1) at East Carolina (3-2): NC State by 14

-This could be a shootout. NC State is ranked 8th in passing yards per game and 13th in points per game while East Carolina is ranked 13th in passing ypg and 12th in ppg. However the telling stat is that in ECU's two meetings with ACC teams this year, (and under maned UNC team and an under performing VT) they have lost by a combined 91-44.

12:00 PM: Maryland (4-1) at Clemson (2-3): Maryland by 3

-For Maryland to keep pace with FSU and NC State for the Atlantic Division crown they have to win at death valley. 2-3 Clemson has lost to all the quality teams they've played (albeit one is #7 Auburn). I expect a close game having Maryland coming out on top by a field goal.

1:00 PM: Miami (3-2) at Duke (1-4): Miami by 21

3:30 PM: Mid Tennessee (2-3) at Georgia Tech (4-2): Georgia Tech by 17

3:30 PM Wake Forest (2-4) at Virginia Tech (4-2): Virginia Tech by 10

6:00 PM: North Carolina (3-2) at Virginia (2-3): North Carolina by 7

Big 10:

12:00 PM: Arkansas St. (2-4) at Indiana (3-2): Indiana by 14

12:00 PM: Illinois (3-2) at #13 Michigan State (6-0): Michigan State by 7

-Illinois is coming off its first win in Happy Valley against Penn State and had a good showing against Ohio State. This game is going to be closer than people think.

12:00 PM: Minnesota (1-5) at Purdue (3-2): Purdue by 7

3:30 PM: #15 Iowa (4-1) at Michigan (5-1): Michigan by 3

7:00 PM: #1 Ohio State (6-0) at #18 Wisconsin (5-1): Ohio State by 10

Big 12:

(Thurs.) 7:30 PM: Kansas State (4-1) at Kansas (2-3): Kansas State by 10

12:00 PM #21 Missouri (5-0) at Texas a&m (3-2): Texas a&m by 3

3:30 PM: Texas (3-2) at #5 Nebraska (5-0): Nebraska by 10

3:30 PM: #20 Oklahoma State (5-0) at Texas Tech (3-2): Oklahoma State by 7

7:00 PM: Baylor (3-2) at Colorado (4-2): Colorado by 3

7:00 PM: Iowa State (3-3) at #6 Oklahoma (5-0): Oklahoma by 17

Pac 10:

3:30 PM California (3-2) at USC (4-2): USC by 7

7:30 PM #17 Arizona (4-1) at Washington State (1-5): Arizona by 17

10:15 PM #24 Oregon State (3-2) at Washington (2-3): Oregon State by 14

SEC:

12 PM: Vanderbilt (2-3) at Georgia (2-4): Georgia by 7

3:30 PM: #12 Arkansas (4-1) at #7 Auburn (6-0): Auburn by 3

6:00 PM: #10 South Carolina (4-1) at Kentucky (3-3): South Carolina by 17

7:00 PM: Mississippi State (4-2) at #22 Florida (4-2): Florida by 10

7:00 PM: McNeese State (2-3) at #9 LSU (6-0): LSU by 21

9:00 PM: Ole Miss (3-2) at #8 Alabama (5-1): Alabama by 14

Stay tuned for my mid-season conference champion picks and a post previewing the Boston College vs Florida State game...

NC State Post Game Reaction

Embarrassing. Awful. Terrible.

Ok now that we've got that out of the way I can get on with analyzing the actual game and Ill start with an improvement. Montel Harris actually found running room this week going up from 28 yards against Notre Dame to 53 yards against the Wolfpack. Not much of an improvement but the real stat lies in the average which went from 1.8 yards per carry to 3.8. A respectable number but not close to what it needs to be if BC hopes to actually compete. The ground game HAS to open up for our offense to be successful because 3rd and short is better than 3rd and 10. Thats why Shinskie was so successful last year because Harris would pick up 4-8 yards and leave us with an option to run or pass on second and he could make the throw on 3rd.

BC was in the game though going down 10-3 and having NC State backed up with a 3rd and 9. Wilson dropped back and threw a 37 yard strike, prolonging the drive and leading to a touchdown. Down 24-10 at the half. They were still in the game at the beginning of the 3rd quarter, a touchdown makes it a one possession game, but Shinskie threw a touchdown pass to the wrong team killing any hopes of winning. It was a frustrating game with very few positives. Someone needs to take control of this team. Anybody.

Props to Tom O'Brien and more importantly Russel Wilson (Three TD passes). They had a good game plan and they executed. BC was beat by a better team on Saturday and NC State looks like it could make it to its first ACC Championship game ever. All that stands in their way is, FSU who dismantled Miami. NC State vs Florida State is going to be the game of the year in the ACC.

BC has gotten themselves into a vicious cycle, and it all starts where? You guessed it! The quarterback position! Right now BC cannot throw the ball. At all. Shinskie was talking big all week about how being pulled was a "wake up call for Dave Shinskie." Yes he referred to himself in the third person. I was actually confident that he could step up and lead this team, or at least this offense. What happens? More open receivers overthrown, and more throws into double coverage.

Because BC cant throw the ball, they can't run the ball either. Defenses stack the box with 8 men leaving our good offensive line, and they are good, overmatched and out numbered. As a result our best offensive weapon can't be utilized, finding no room to run and forcing us into third and longs that our quarterbacks have to throw their way out of.

Because the offense cant run the ball, they can't control the clock and wear down the opponents defense. More often then not BC goes three and out taking little to no time off the clock, in the process losing the battle of field position, hoping the defense will bail them out. Which they do. But they can only bail us out so many times before our opponents start scoring on us. And because the offense cant take time off the clock the defense is always on the field wearing them down.

So let me review. Cant throw--->Cant run (Opponents crowd the line b/c they know a run is coming.)--->Force us into 3rd and long--->Three and outs--->Loses Battle of field position--->Defense wears down, on field to long and in poor field position= Other Team 100 BC 0

It seems that the only way to improve our team is to improve our quarterback, calling Chase Rettig. Chase went 5-10 in his rookie debut on national T.V. against BC's biggest rivals, completing 5 passes in a row and leading two drives that resulted in 10 points. He was leading us back into the game before he got hurt. After he gets hurt 10-3 Notre Dame. Bottom Line: Rettig plays BC will win some games.

Around the Boston College campus I have been hearing nothing but negativity about the team since the Weber State game (First game of the season). The problem was only made worse when they lost to a better Notre Dame team on national T.V. which was a breaking point for the vast majority of BC fans, alum and students alike. I tried to defend this team on every point. I viciously defended Spaz and the defense pointing out that they are the only positive thing about our team this year. I said that the NC State and Florida State game would give us a good idea how the rest of the season would go. After the 44-17 drubbing by the Wolfpack, I cant blame the fans for the negativity anymore. It looks bleak, but I will offer you five reasons not to give up on this team, they need us more than ever right now.

1. CHASE RETTIG. Comparisons to Matt Ryan, Rettig is the future of this program. His brief stint leading the offense was promising and should give BC fans hope for the rest of this year and the next three years. If he starts on Saturday in arguably the most hostile environment in the ACC and plays well then our season looks up.

2. DEFENSE: BC has had a top 20 defense in the country the past five years, producing NFL talent like top 10 pick BJ Raji, and midround picks Jamie Silva, Jolon Dunbar, Dejuan Tribble, Ron Brace ect. BC's defense is once again tops in the nation in run defense, holding a very potent Virginia Tech backfield to under 100 yards and only one touchdown all day. Who recruited these players? Coach Spaz.

He has been getting the most grief from BC fans for his play calling. First of all HE DOESNT CALL THE OFFENSIVE PLAYS, GARY TRANQUIL IS THE GUY YOU WANT. Second of all, what he is in charge of is the best part of our team. His only full recruiting class has produced Luke Kuechly, who will be the best BC linebacker of all time. CHILL OUT ABOUT SPAZ HE IS THE ONLY GOOD THING WE HAVE RIGHT NOW.

3. Nate Freese is the greatest kicker BC has ever had. In the ACC good kicking games = Wins.

4. Our two best Receivers are hurt but will be back. Once they return they will also drastically help the passing game.

5. It cant get any worse! We have a very young team and they are gaining more experience every day. The more game experience the better our team gets.

If you haven't abandoned ship yet I commend you join the club of the 5 remaining BC fans.

Keep the Faith! (If you can) WE ARE BC