Friday September 08, 2006

Boston College Preview

Last Week
Clemson: The Tigers cruised to an easy 54-6 win over division 1 newbie, Florida Atlantic. Although the Tigers dominated the game from start to finish, the game didn't go quite as smoothly as the final score would indicate. The Tigers had four turnovers and a few injuries. Roman Fry and Nathan Bennett got banged up early in the game and missed a lot of action, giving some much needed experience to the younger guys. On the defensive side of the ball, senior leader, Anthony Waters was lost for the year with a torn ACL. All in all, it was a good win for the Tigers. Proctor looked good in his second career start and the Tigers rushed for nearly 200 yards, while scoring on offense, defense, and special teams.

Boston College: The Eagles had a good win on the road against Central Michigan. Matt Ryan looked good, throwing for 321 yards and two touchdowns, despite playing on a hurt ankle. The Boston College running game wasn't as sharp however, rushing for only 82 yards on 32 carries (2.7 yards a carry). On the other side of the ball, the Eagles weren't as sharp as one would have expected. They allowed a total of 366 yards, 243 in the air and 123 on the ground (4.7 yards a carry).

The Matchup: Last year the Tigers saw the Eagles come into the Valley and push them around. The Eagles controlled the lines on both sides of the ball, making the Tigers work for every yard. Despite that, the Eagles didn't exactly run away with the ball game, pulling it out 16-13 in OT. This years game looks to be no different. The Tigers should have very little trouble stopping the Eagle running game, especially if it performs as it did against Central Michigan. If that's the case, Matt Ryan will have to put the Eagles on his shoulders, which he is capable of doing. The Clemson defensive front will have to put constant pressure on Ryan or the Tigers young defensive backs could be in for a long day. On the other side of the ball, the Eagles know they must keep the Clemson running attack under control and put the pressure on Will Proctor to come through in his first road start. In order for Proctor to have a chance, the Clemson O-line must give him something they didn't give Whitehurst against the Eagles last year; TIME!!!!! Last year, the Eagles were on Charlie all day, completely shutting down the vertical passing game.

The outcome: The Tigers veteran offensive line will come through, opening up the running lanes and giving Proctor enough time to allow plays to develop. The trio of Davis, Reggie, and Spiller will carry the Tiger offense, getting all the help it needs from Proctor. Matt Ryan will keep the Eagles close as this one comes down to the wire. Clemson 27 Boston College 24