BC Syracuse Preview

Boston College, coming off a devastating loss to Syracuse last weekend, heads to Raleigh to take on the Wolfpack of NC State.  BC is looking to get back to .500 and to keep its slim chances of a bowl alive with a win.  NC State is favored by 15 points in this one.

What to Watch When BC has the Ball:  The Boston College running game improved last week against Syracuse.  Starter Jon Hilliman did not play, but backup Davon Jones rushed for 66 yards on 14 carries.  Look for Jones to continue to get the bulk of the carries even if Hilliman plays this weekend.  Also, BC has been making more of an effort to get Jeff Smith and Michael Walker involved in the run game, as both of them can break one for a touchdown if they get space.  NC State is strong against the run, and held Clemson to under 4 yards per carry.  They particularly excel down in the red zone, where they do well to stop power runs.  NC State can be beat through the air.  However, the Eagles have not thrown well against any quality opponents so far this season.  BC may be starting a new QB in Darius Wade on Saturday, who look good in limited action against Syracuse.  Wade will need help from his receivers, who have dropped over 10% of catching opportunities this season. 

What to Watch When NC State has the Ball:  NC State has moved the ball well on the ground so far this season.  They are lead by Matthew Dayes, who has already rushed for over 100 yards 5 times this year.  Dayes was banged up against Louisville last week, but it expected to be ready to go for Saturday.  On defense, BC has excelled at stopping the run.  They have shut down the run game from every team except for Clemson this year.  The Eagles defensive line has been excellent, and needs to play well again to stop Dayes.  It will also be key for BC to get pressure without blitzing much on Saturday.  Harold Landry already has 8 sacks this season, and should be able to get into the backfield.  Last week, Eric Dungey was able to pick apart the BC secondary.  NC State quarterback Ryan Finely is very efficient through the air.  He has completed 62% of his passes and has 11 TDs compared to 4 INT.  However, NC State does not have game changers at the receiver position.  The Boston College cornerbacks should be able to keep NC State in front of them, and not give up the long touchdown that cost them last week.

Overall: The key in the game for BC is the effort that they put in.  It would be very easy for the Eagles to give up this season, as they are unlikely to reach bowl eligibility, the coach will probably be fired at the end of the season, and the quarterback was hurt last week.  However, BC has the talent to win in this game.  NC State is a tough but beatable opponent.  BC needs to start the game aggressive, and cannot afford to fall behind early.  The Eagles offense has struggled in the firs quarter so far this season, and that must change on Saturday.  If BC comes out of the gates strong, and plays aggressively, they can easily win this game.  If BC does not show up, they will lose by at least 20.  I think the Eagles will come out strong, and throw everything at NC State in this one.

Prediction: Boston College 21 NC State 20