Thursday, November 13, 2008

Boston College - Florida State | Game Preview




When BC has the ball

BC did a great job running the ball last week and I hope to see more of the same. Haden and Harris should both get carries. With McCluskey out, BC needs former QB Codi Boek to step in. McCluskey has had a big role in the offense, but how will Coach Logan adjust? My guess is that we will see more single back or double tight end sets. Florida State is an aggressive defense, so draws and screens could turn into big plays for the Eagles. BC desperately needs to break off a long run as it would help Crane tremendously during the game. Crane was extremely cautious last game and committed no turnovers. But this is a double edge sword; we mustered a measly 79 yards and the offense had no confidence completing deep passes. I know Crane is reckless and makes poor throws, but I think this may be a game BC needs to open it up more, maybe try some deep passes instead out simple 4 yard outs and slants. This would also help the running game because they wouldn't be able to put nine men in the box. The big question for our offense is kicking. Third down conversions will be huge. We all know the sire state of our kicking game and the more we can avoid those situations the better off we will be.

When Florida State has the ball

Florida State is by far the fastest team we will see this year. The rushing attack for Florida State is dangerous. Their two running backs have combined for 15 touchdowns already this year. QB Christian Ponder is also a threat to tuck it an run, which may be the BC D's kryptonite. We need stand out performances from the D-line as it is essential they prevent Ponder or the running backs from getting to the sidelines. I've been pleased with the play of the secondary all year (minus UNC Game) and I think this trend continues versus Florida State. Their wide receiving core is experienced, but nobody has game breaking speed. Akins and Herzlich will play big roles Saturday as they will likely be assigned the tasks of spying  Ponder and keeping the backs in check.

Overall

This Florida State "Blackout" thing is already pretty annoying. Typically fans and players will make a bigger deal out of the uniforms than the actual game. I do get the feeling BC is being overlooked in this game. We have always played Florida State tough, but for some reason we are being written off already. Florida State has plenty of distractions this week; homecoming weekend, the blackout, the fight on campus. This is certainly a big game for both teams. Whoever wins will be in the driver's seat for a birth to the ACC Championship in Tampa. As much as it pains me to say this, I don't think Boston College wins this game. I think it will be close, but our lack of kicking game will certainly haunt us. Its so tough on the offense when you know you must score a touchdown in order to get any points. The crowd won't be a huge factor, but Florida State's speed will, look for FSU force a turnover or two. In the end, I don't think BC has enough playmakers on offense to pull this one off.

Florida State 24    Boston College 14



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