Second viewing thoughts and grades: Wake Forest

[First a little bit of an explanation. Through the entire history of the blog, watching BC Football live and then rewatching it was not an issue or a challenge. Even as I had children, their activities tended to be more morning-based. Now increasingly my Saturday afternoons are spent watching (and coaching) their games and following BC on my phone or in the car. My Sundays in the fall are very busy too with volunteer work, leaving even less time to rewatch. I think rewatching is very valuable as a fan and blogger, so I plan to keep it up. However, I don't know if I can plan to regularly pump it out by Sunday night. Thanks for your continued support.]

For as dominant as an offensive performance as that was, the game was far, far from clean and did leave me with concerns. Beyond the Special Teams miscues, the OLine and DLine were not as consistent as they will need to be against elite competition. The conditioning issue -- which was mentioned on the broadcast multiple times -- also should have us and Addazio worried. Given the talent advantage and explosive plays, it never should have been that close. Watching it a second time only confirmed that belief.

Offense: A-

Brown looked even better than he did against UMass and Holy Cross. His deep throws weren't perfect but they were still pretty close. He didn't force things. He also was a little more accurate on his short passes. I would still like to see him running more but depends on his knee.

Dillon ran well. He didn't do anything to top some of his previous highlights, but his runs were solid and explosive. I would like to see him more in the passing game. Levy only got a few snaps.

I know a lot of guys are winning awards this week, but Jeff Smith might be most deserving. His hands have gotten so much better. He runs really well and his speed is impressive. If he stays healthy and teams keep leaving him open, he will have a huge season. White had a nice TD, as did Glines. Sweeney made a great adjustment on his TD. We didn't get the TEs more involved, but probably should have. There were lots of plays available.

The OLine was the most troubling spot. I know it is tough when the opponent sells out to stop the run, but that wasn't the main problem. In straight up powers, the oline looked good. When they had to move -- stretches, traps, counters, -- things broke down a bit. The counter seems to be the best play. The power sweep would seem to be a good idea but it was never very clean during the game. Monteiro seemed to struggle the most when moving or pulling. Schmaal was good. Petrula did a good job with the edge. If teams are going to keep challenging the OLine, they need to be ready for speedy penetration.

My only critique of the Offensive gameplan was too much variety in the run game. We tried a bit of everything and it was hit or miss. I think keeping things simple, especially when you have someone like Dillon, is the best plan. All he needs is one missed tackle and he can score. Loefler needs to focus on what BC does best in the running game and stop messing around with stuff the Oline can't pull off yet.

Defense: B-

Ray had a great game. He still was aggressive late in the game. Allen wasn't as dominant. He was fine. The DTs really struggled. I am not sure how much they were told to hold position against Wake's run game, but they were getting pushed back over and over. Smith got pushed back. Karafa was a step slow. Valdez and Rayam got playing time but didn't disrupt much.

Strachan was pretty active, but also had a few misses. Richardson also got lots of playing time and was ok.

The DBs were the best part of the D. Cheevers took some gambles, but also made plenty of plays. Harris played well. Denis was fine. Sebastian got beat a few times. Torres was good.

I am surprised we still haven't figured Wake out on D. Their approach under Clawson hasn't really changed. But they got lots of push and lots of plays off. We couldn't get them off the field. That's a bad sign. Why not bring more pressure? Or do something to help out the DTs.

Special Teams: B-

Even without the fumble or blocked punt there were still some other Special Teams issues. We missed an extra point. We got lucky on a penalty on one of Wake's long returns.

Overall: B

As Addazio pointed out in the post-game press conference, this team did persevere for the win. Overcoming mistakes and the shifting game times could easily have been a distraction. He deserves credit for that and for building such a talent advantage. But I think having two easy games to start the season was somewhat unnecessary and may have led to the tiredness and sloppy play.

In a way, it was ideal for Addazio in that he got the win, the team showed flashes of greatness, yet he can still keep them humble.

The whole game in 20 minutes

This is pretty cool and worth it if you want to see all the highlights.

Addazio's post game thoughts

This is BC's best start since 2007 and Addazio seems pretty happy with his team. He like the chemistry and liked how they responded to some adversity. If you read into Addazio's reactions, he thinks this team is very good.

Friday picks

Last week I went heavy on the road teams. This week is more about the home teams. Let's hope I am trending in the right way.



Rutgers+2.5 at Kansas

Hawaii+7 at Army

Florida State-3.5 at Syracuse

Tulane-4 at UAB

Duke+5 at Baylor

Boise State+2 at Oklahoma State

Ohio+5 at Virginia

Oregon State+4 at Nevada

Mizzou-6 at Purdue

UMass+4 at FIU

I am 6-14 on the season.

BC survives uneven performance for win at Wake

This was a very prescient tweet during the game.

This team has the talent to win the ACC and the coaching to finish last.

— Chris (@cschroeck) September 13, 2018

This game never should have been as close as it was. But special teams mistakes and predictable play calling negated the huge talent advantage. Fortunately talent won out. Lots to like about the game. I just hope Addazio is able to clean up the stuff that hurt BC before we play teams who are our equal.

The good news is that there were enough highlight and Dillon moments that BC will probably be ranked soon.

I will try to have the grades up Saturday (and I will also try to get to the Holy Cross thoughts).

In-game comments post: Wake Forest

And now the season truly begins. This is a critical game under unique circumstances. Let's hope it is memorable for the right reasons.

Leave your thoughts and comments below.

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BC-Wake Forest preview

This is only the third game and yet this season already feels weird. We are 2-0 without really being tested. There is a bandwagon forming and yet no one truly knows what we have. How could they after playing two really bad teams? Now we have our first real test, our ACC opener, it's a short week, we're on the road and we have a weird start time due to an oncoming hurricane. If you made this up it wouldn't be believable. I am excited to see how BC does and think this game will determine a lot about the season.

What's on my mind (not totally related to this game)
Did you notice the online excitement when BC released some new merchandise with the old logo? Or the 40,000 people at Alumni for a Holy Cross game? I think it is fair to say there are plenty of people who love BC's past and history. I don't want to live in the past, but I also think when it comes to schedules, marketing, and building excitement for BC Sports, we need to push our history and identity as much as possible. We are not just some football factory. We are unique in the landscape and should embrace that uniqueness. Our long-time fans clearly have.

Three Simple Keys
1. Stay poised on D. Wake plays up tempo and will use multiple QBs. BC needs to keep it simple and not take too many risks. Given the circumstances, it is almost like playing an option team.
2. Pass as long as possible. My biggest fear with the potential weather issue is BC not airing it out. There have been huge openings in the passing game so far and more are sure to come against Wake. BC needs to hit those opportunities.
3. Second level blocking. One of the things that I don't think we did well in the first two games was dominating on the second level. If teams crowd the box, we need to get push back and release to the next guy. That will create huge runs for any of our RBs.

Gambling Notes
-- Addazio is 1-4 in ACC openers
-- Addazio is 2-2 against Clawson
-- BC leads the series 7-4
The current line is BC-4.5

Factoid
Addazio is undefeated at BB&T Field

Scoreboard Watching
Florida State and Syracuse is the most relevant game to BC this weekend. Are the 'Noles really as bad as they look? Is Syracuse decent? We will find out soon.

What I hope to see...
Win or lose, I don't want to see or hear any excuses about the change in schedule. Is it inconvenient? Sure. But over the years any time BC has a travel issue and loses (NIT years ago, Syracuse years ago with TOB), we never hear the end of it. I don't want to hear excuses this time. Wake has to adjust their schedule too.

BC is in trouble if...
We get in a big hole early. I don't know if we have the offense or a QB who is ready to pull off a double-digit comeback.

Overall
I think despite all the distractions and uncertainty, this is still BC's game. I think it will take BC a while to adjust to playing a real team, but after a sluggish first half, I think BC pounds away and pulls away in the second half.
Final Score: BC 31, Wake Forest 17

BC-Wake game time moved up

After a few days of speculation, BC, Wake Forest and the ACC announced that kickoff has been moved up to 5:30 pm ET on Thursday. Aside from outright cancelling, this makes the most sense. It will likely still be wet, but less likely to have harsh winds and the heavy rain that a true night game would have had. I think the earlier time favors BC. The stands will likely be empty. The conditions not great, but shouldn't make us one dimensional. The only problem I see is if BC can't get out of North Carolina Thursday night.

Thanks to @DemonDeacons , the @theACC and @espn for working with us to help move this game up and get it played. We look forward to opening ACC play Thursday! #WeAreBC https://t.co/UZW4EGStkm

— Martin Jarmond (@MartinJarmond) September 11, 2018

It is going to be wet against Wake

Despite the Hurricane scares, I don't foresee ESPN or the ACC rescheduling the BC-Wake game. I think we can play in bad weather, but given our talent advantage, a slick sloppy night helps them more than it helps us.

Post game video roundup

I didn't have time to watch the game back yet, so enjoy these videos for now.

Holy Cross game goes as expected

It turned into a glorified scrimmage. But I will hold my point that if we are going to do that, it might as well be against Holy Cross. No major problems. No major injuries and lots of experience for the backups.

I will have grades up late Sunday.

In-game comments post: Holy Cross

Rivalry renewed or glorified scrimmage? We will find out shortly.

Leave your thoughts and comments below.

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Friday picks

My picks were horrible last week. I guess I need a preseason to get warmed up. Things turn around this week. I'm going heavy on the road teams. Here you go:

Friday picks

Georgia Tech-3 at South Florida

Arizona+3.5 at Houston

Duke+2.5 at Northwestern

Kansas+3.5 at Central Michigan

Colorado+3 at Nebraska

Iowa State+3.5 at Iowa

UMass+1 at Georgia Southern

Virginia+5 at Indiana

USC+5 at Stanford

Cal+3 at BYU

I am 2-8 on the season.

BC-Holy Cross preview

Last week was exciting -- the start of a new season. This is more subdued. The tradition with Holy Cross is nice and the excitement about this BC team is palpable, but I don't think we will know anything more about BC after playing a bad FCS team.

What's on my mind (not totally related to this game) 
I think Holy Cross' Head Coach Bob Chesney will be a FBS head coach real soon. His track record of success building terrible, low resource programs will be enticing to many schools. If he has even the littlest bit of success in Worcester, it looks like he will leverage that for another job. After Holy Cross, the next step would seem to be either FCS power or FBS bottom dweller. Either way, the guy looks like he is going places.

Three Simple Keys
1. Add some more deep passing for Brown. I don't suspect he will be under much pressure. I would like to see BC attempt more deep passes to build his confidence and put pressure on future opponents to not load the box.
2. Get reps for the young guys. The new redshirt rules are a gift. Use it this game to develop young guys and second teamers.
3. Clean up Special Teams. It should be better than last week.

Gambling Notes
-- Addazio has not lost to an FCS school
-- BC leads the all time series 48-31-3
-- BC has won their last three home games against Holy Cross
Because this is a FCS-FBS game, there are no lines on the major sites

Factoid
While Fenway hosted the series for many years, BC also played Holy Cross in Foxboro twice.

Scoreboard watching
Most of the ACC is taking on FCS teams this weekend, so there is not much at stake with regards to the division race. The big game is Clemson-Texas A&M. It would be nice for the Tigers to win in convincing fashion, so that the national perception of the ACC remains strong.

I hope to see...
A viral highlight from Dillon. There was talk after last week about whether Dillon's Heisman hopes were ruined by not padding his stats against UMass. I don't think they were and feel like the middle of the season will determine his chances. However, it wouldn't hurt to get on people's radars now. A nice viral moment would lay the groundwork for a Dillon trophy run.

BC is in trouble if...
As always with these lopsided games, the only real trouble for BC is injury. We will survive this game, but a significant injury could ruin the season.

Overall
This won't be close. As much as I long for a spirited rivalry, this is not the year. BC will crush them and we may even have to speed the clock in the second half.
Final Score: BC 52, Holy Cross 10

How did Addazio approach new redshirt rule in Week 1

One of the biggest rule changes this offseason was the new redshirt policy. Players can now play in four games and still use a redshirt. Addazio mentioned in the preseason there were a few ways to test the system based on team needs and expectations for the players. Based on Week 1 it looks like he will play a lot of kids and see who is ready for full time action and who might sit later in the year. Nine true freshmen played against UMass. As a reference point -- last year Addazio only played five true freshmen. (And one of those was using Perry earlier than he wanted.)

Being aggressive with the roster early makes sense to me. If all nine look great and are needed, there is no reason to redshirt them. Ride it out and put the best team you can on the field. If only one or two are exceeding expectations, then you keep playing them and redshirt the others.

The only challenge I can foresee is if one of the players sits and then is needed late in the season (sort of like Perry last year). Then you burn the redshirt and didn't get a full season for the player. That will probably happen eventually, but for now, I think Addazio should keep using young players and see who is ready to help the team. 

Which FCS teams should BC play?

One of the common complaints about our schedule is the annual FCS game. Because we are facing a smaller school from a lower division, there is rarely excitement. It is nearly a no win for BC, since the payday is minimal, ticket sales are usually low and there is no respect for the opponent. But these games are not going away. Every college program plays them. Until either TV or the playoff system demands that teams stop playing FCS, these games will continue. While I am all for BC being a leader in college sports, I don't want them to take a stand on this issue. The games might be boring, but they do help us prepare for the season. Even prior to playing FCS schools, BC would schedule a winnable game like this.

If these games aren't going away, then what should the philosophy be in scheduling them? In the past I've been very clear that the games should be either against Catholic schools or New England schools. (Note that BC can't schedule non-scholarship teams like the Ivy League.) Here is that list:

-- Central Connecticut State
-- Bryant
-- Sacred Heart
-- Holy Cross
-- New Hampshire
-- Maine
-- University of San Diego
-- Georgetown (once they add scholarships)
-- Dayton
-- Duquesne
-- Saint Francis
-- Villanova
-- Rhode Island
-- Fordham
-- Bryant
-- Incarnate Word

Now we've played plenty of FCS schools that don't fall into this geographic or cultural territory (like Wagner just a few years ago). And while I understand that schedule is sometimes a game of musical chairs, there is no reason BC should need to schedule beyond this list. Maybe I could see regularly including New York and New Jersey teams, but those become a little harder to justify. I don't want to reach and schedule FCS powers. There is no upside in doing that.

An AD and Football coach shouldn't get in the habit of having to rationalize their schedules, but the Catholic/New England focus is a good talking point. Unless someone has a better philosophy, I suggest we keep the FCS scheduling to those teams.

Why Holy Cross matters

I don't read or hear the conversation as much these days, but BC doesn't really have a rival. The ACC-Notre Dame deal meant we actually play the Irish less. As much as I love some of our ACC matchups, none really earn the rivalry status. We have a nice history and rivalry with BU for hockey and Providence for basketball, but that's not the same. A true college rivalry is formed in football but lives through all sports, and if it is a true rivalry, it bleeds into all aspects of your life with friends and relatives on the other side. BC had something like that for a long time. It was with Holy Cross.

Even explaining this rivalry is a challenge. Half my readers remember it, lived it and know more about it than I do. The other half are still scratching their head at the thought of a heated relationship with Holy Cross. But once upon a time, this was the college football game in New England. Both programs had periods of success. For years games were played at Fenway. Both schools were filled with Catholics from the Boston area. There was a feeling that you knew everyone sitting in the stands, regardless of what team they were rooting for. 

The connection was more than just sports and proximity. Both schools are Jesuit and priests often moved back and forth between the institutions. For a long time both schools also prized athletics. But Holy Cross' size and constantly shifting position on sports changed the rivalry and the school.

Being smaller than BC was always a bit limiting, yet Holy Cross had (and still has a large athletic department). But when the first DIA and DIAA split came, Holy Cross went small and BC stayed large. The additional scholarships and larger stage only made the rivalry more lopsided. As Holy Cross moved to no scholarships, it wasn't even a rivalry anymore. The series ended as it was no longer competitive or fair (with HC having no scholarships). And as the sports connection faded, so did the tightness of the other connections. As both schools became more national and had student bodies from beyond Massachusetts, the familiarity and overlap dwindled too. 

While I know some individual Holy Cross fans who rehash the "would've, should've, could've" aspects of their sports decisions, I don't know how all their alumni feel. It is clear that their leadership values a future in sports and hence the return to scholarships and the return to playing BC. They are a long way away from being competitive, but I do wish them success. I would love for them to become a FCS power and an semi-regular part of our schedule. The nostalgia and association would help both schools and perhaps grow to something new and exciting. Holy Cross was a critical part of BC history. It would be nice to have it as part of our future.

Second viewing thoughts and grades: UMass

I was in my car and following the game on my phone, so by the time I watched the game Saturday night, I was calm and knew BC crushed UMass. Had I watched live, the first quarter might have been a little more tense and upsetting. Watching with the outcome known was very calming and reassuring for the season. Brown had been the big question mark (and he looked pretty good). There were a few spotty areas, but this was the start to the season BC needed.

Offense: A-

Statistically Brown was great. Considering his limited preseason, Brown was great. When you factor in the injury, Brown was great. But his passes were a bit off target. I know his completion percentage was good, but he still threw behind some guys or not exactly where the ball should be. Against a better team he will get burned with that stuff. I thought his decisions were good in the passing game. I think he will need to present himself as a running threat in our more challenging games. With the way UMass was biting on the end arounds/sweeps, there could be huge plays for AB if he fakes the handoff.

I know a lot of people wanted Dillon to pad his stats, but I was fine with his game. He didn't get his usual viral highlight, but the pass catching alone showed major improvement. Levy and Bailey were fine. Jones got the TDs, but we had such a size advantage against UMass, I don't know how much of that was him vs our OLine.

Two of White's catches were beautiful. I felt like Smith could have done more after the catch and handoff -- he had space and just didn't get the right hole. Marten had a career day for him. I was a bit surprised none of the other guys turned their catches into big plays.

The OLine was fine. It is hard to judge this game because of two factors that made the whole area muddled. UMass stiacked the box a lot but also was undersized on the DL. We were winning battles but not exploding because of how their back seven played.

Loeffler called a good game. I think it was good to move Brown around. He needs to get used to rollouts and bootlegs since so many teams are going to focus on our run game. I had no problem with the subs in the second half.

Defense: B+

The only surprising part to me was that our defensive line starters didn't dominate in a more pronounced fashion. Allen was fine, but not speeding by the UMass guys. Smith had a nice INT. Ray was fine.

Strachan is another guy who looked good coming back to action. Jones made some nice plays. DePalma got extended playing time.

Sebastian had the biggest coverage breakdown of the game (the first UMass TD) but was ok after. Denis' INT was nice, as was the runback. Harris was fine. Torres was fine.

This was a very vanilla scheme and that's fine. No need to do anything special unless the opponent and game situation calls for it.

Special Teams: B-

I know you can excuse some of the special team's issues to losing our long snapper (Martin), but there were some other issues too.

We allowed a long kick return. We were not aggressive with our own returns...including punt returns.

Overall: A-

I could get nitpicky about the start or letting UMass get some garbage time points, or hammer Addazio for Special Teams but it was a pretty darn good showing. He had the more talented team and they played that way. It was a relatively vanilla approach, but probably what we needed for the start. And to Addazio's credit, the depth and talent improvement is more obvious in a blowout. The second teamers come on and BC still looks better than their FBS opponent.

Next week should be an even easier game, but I think we can trust Addazio not to screw it up. He certainly didn't screw up this game.

Video roundup

Highlights. 

Addazio's postgame press conference.

BC stomps UMass

It started off a little closer than you like but BC turned it on in the second quarter and never looked back. Great day for AB and everyone else did what they were supposed to do.

More to come tonight and grades up Sunday.

In-game comments post: UMass

It is time. Time for BC Football! Let's have a great year and get off to a great start today.

Leave your thoughts and comments below.

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Friday picks

Now that sports betting is legal, you can now take my advice and bet away...or at least bet away in the states that created sports books.

I am looking to start strong out of the gate. Good luck to all those with a little extra riding on each game.


Ole Miss+2.5 at Texas Tech

West Virginia-10 at Tennessee

Washington+2.5 at Auburn

North Carolina+7.5 at Cal

Middle Tennessee+3 at Vanderbilt

Washington State-2 at Wyoming

Northern Illinois+10 at Iowa

Michigan+1 at Notre Dame

Miami-3.5 at LSU

Virginia Tech+7.5 at Florida State

BC-UMass preview

I have a weird feeling about this year. As you saw in my predictions, I am skeptical about BC putting it all together. However, when I think about Dillon and the OL, I think we are just going to crush some teams this year. And that is really fun to watch! So let's get this started. BC Football is back and I can't wait.

What's on my mind (not totally related to this game) 
Addazio spent a good portion of his radio show this week talking about how tough the opener is regardless of your opponent. He feels the key is to come away with the W. I understand where he is coming from, but also think it is very limiting. Every year there are opportunities to schedule big games on the opening weekend. When he thinks he has a good team (like this year) Addazio should be more aggressive and schedule an opener that gets people excited and makes a statement in Week 1.

Three Simple Keys
1. Pressure on Ford early. UMass is going to try to establish the pass early. BC needs to disrupt that and get Ford out of the pocket.
2. Run, run and then run some more. UMass had one of the worst run defenses in the country last year. BC needs to hammer them there and not look back.
3. Be careful with the ball. I only see this game being interesting if BC turns the ball over a lot.

Gambling Notes
-- Addazio is 4-1 in openers at BC
-- BC is 21-5-1 all time against UMass
-- Addazio is 16-16 at Alumni
The current line is BC-18

Factoid
Sadly this game is not on local TV. It is frustrating that ESPN, the ACC and BC can't fix that.

Scoreboard Watching
Wake Forest plays an improving Tulane team at Tulane Thursday night. The Deacons will be our first critical game. The Tulane matchup is a chance to see the impact of Wake's early suspensions. I am hoping Wake struggles and comes into our game a mess.

I hope to see...
Matt McDonald play for an extended time during mop up duty. The backup QB always gets to be the most popular guy around. I bought into his hype this summer, so now I want to see the kid play in a real game.

BC is in trouble if...
Dillon gets hurt. He is the most important player on the team and the most critical player for the season. He can't get hurt in this game. We could still beat UMass without him, but it would make a winning season less likely.

Overall
There may be some rust early. UMass may make a play or two. But I don't see this as close or interesting. I think we physically overmatch them and win with ease.
Final Score: BC 35, UMass 13

Season Prediction Part III: what will happen

Addazio has said we have one of the best Olines in the country. He also made similar statements about our RBs and TEs. That alone should mean a Top 25 season. Yet I have my doubts. I don't know if I trust him to navigate and push the right buttons during the season. I know we exploded during the second half of last year and we rallied in 2016. But why does it come to that every year? Can he avoid it this year? This is how I see it playing out.

(This will serve as my actual predictions for the year.)

UMass. Win. Whipple has improved things but they are still terrible. I don't think this will be close.

Holy Cross. Win. Addazio might complain about the schedule, but he was gifted two cupcakes to start the season.

at Wake Forest. Win. I don't think this will be pretty, but I still think BC has enough of a talent advantage to win this game during a short week.

at Purdue. Loss. I see this as a shootout. Even if Dillon goes off -- which I think he will against them -- I still think Purdue will answer. It is a road game against a rising team. I just see something not going our way.

Temple. Win. Another game BC should win without a problem.

at NC State. Win. Another tough road game, but I like how our D matches up against their O. I see this as relatively low scoring and BC running out the clock late.

Louisville. Loss. I think this will feel a lot like the Purdue game, where we lose a game where both teams score in the 30s.

Miami. Loss. As I've mentioned in the best and worst case, this game will be hyped to the heavens. I also see it as another close loss. Dillon can only do so much.

at Virginia Tech. Loss. The worst game of the season. The only game where BC is not competitive.

Clemson. Loss. At this point Clemson is playing with a lot of confidence and BC is dinged up.

at Florida State. Win. The late season Addazio "stop the bleeding" game. I don't think FSU will be very good this year and I think we can pound them down.

Syracuse. Win. I expect Syracuse to be bad this year and I think it remains a good matchup for us.

This would leave BC as 7-5 (4-4) in the ACC. No major bowls for us, so we play in the Military Bowl against Navy (an unofficial home game for them). It will be an ugly struggle like our last bowl against the Midshipmen, but BC wins.

Addazio finishes with his first eight win season at BC, but it feels like a letdown.

Season Prediction Part II: best case scenario

This is the most talented BC team in a decade. We have elite players on both sides of the ball. Our bruising running game and enormous OLine provide a matchup problem for every team we face. It should be our year. It could be our year. If everything goes right and Addazio doesn't get in the way, this could be special. If it is special, this is how I see it play out.

(My official predictions are coming Wednesday.)

UMass. Win. Total romp. Not even interesting. The backups play most of the second half.

Holy Cross. Win. The only thing interesting about this game is the renewal of the old rivalry. The game is terrible as BC cruises.

at Wake Forest. Win. Suspensions mean we catch them at the right time. BC starts 3-0 and is finally ranked.

at Purdue. Win. A potential trap avoided. BC grinds it out and Dillon has a big day to spark Heisman talk.

Temple. Win. BC keeps moving up in the polls. The passing game is also clicking and BC is scoring in bunches.

at NC State. Win. The D leads the way with lots of sacks and turnovers. BC starts 6-0 and is now in the Top 10.

Louisville. Win. A close game, but like last year, Dillon breaks a few big ones to get the win.

Miami. Win. Miami comes in ranked too. The game is a huge deal (Friday night, ESPN, Red Bandanna). BC runs over the shellshocked 'Canes. Campus is crazy. Playoff talk starting.

at Virginia Tech. Loss. The bubble bursts as it has so many times in Blacksburg. A few mistakes on the road and BC can't recover.

Clemson. Loss. Another wild game at Alumni that ends with a narrow loss. BC is barely in the Top 25.

at Florida State. Win. BC rights the ship and uses the ground game to control and ultimately win.

Syracuse. Win. The Orange are checked out. BC cruises.

BC finished 10-2 (6-2 in the ACC). Not good enough to get into the ACC Championship game and not good enough to get an at-large in the major bowls.

I think BC gets an invite back to Orlando for the Camping World Bowl vs Oklahoma State. I think we win that matchup and finish 11-2 and in the Top 15. Addazio silences all his critics...including this one.

Season Prediction Part I: worst case scenario

Here we go again. My little preseason exercise in "what if?" There are lots of reasons to be optimistic this year, but we know things can fall apart quickly. So here is how the season might play out if nothing goes our way. Tuesday will be the what the perfect season would look like and Wednesday will be my actual predictions for the year.

UMass. Win. Brown looks rusty, but BC still runs all day on UMass.

Holy Cross. Win. Another sloppy game, but BC has enough talent to cruise.

at Wake Forest. Loss. A short week leads to major confusion. Brown still struggles and Wake loads up to stop Dillon.

at Purdue. Loss. BC can't keep up in a shootout. Suddenly the preseason hype starts turning to hot seat talk.

Temple. Win. Another game that is much closer than it should be. The Offense continues to look one dimensional, but the BC D carries the team.

at NC State. Loss. BC doesn't give up the big play and hangs for a while, but NCSU chips away on offense, controls the clock and the game.

Louisville. Loss. A game BC should win but doesn't. There are some mistakes and now a winless ACC schedule starts to seem possible.

Miami. Loss. It is a national TV and red bandanna game. BC is hyped and it is close. But mistakes hurt BC again and the passing game remains one of the worst in college football.

at Virginia Tech. Loss. Another high scoring offense pulls away from BC.

Clemson. Loss. BC plays well, but can't hold back Clemson.

at Florida State. Loss. Another ugly game. The narrative continues that BC is "playing better" but just unlucky.

Syracuse.  Win. Senior Day and a positive way to end a bad season.

This would leave BC at 4-8 and home for the bowl season. In my opinion it would also be time to make a head coaching change.

Game Week: let's catch up with Dillon

Here is Tom Leyden talking to Dillon about the year, the "H" word and goals for the season.

UMass wins its opener and talk shifts to BC

UMass crushed Duquense in their first game of the season and yet after the game, the first team Mark Whipple really talked about was BC.

"BC is a different beast next week, not to take anything away from Duquesne. They have bigger guys who are faster. AJ Dillon will have their attention, and their two safeties. (Connor) Strachan is back. We’ll put the tape on Monday morning,” said UMass head coach Mark Whipple.

Despite his struggles reviving UMass, Whipple is a smart guy and a pretty good X and Os coach. I am not fearful but I do think he will have them ready for BC. I also think he will have a wrinkle or two to keep BC on our toes.

The best thing about the UMass win was that it is a reminder that College Football is back.

A gambler who believes in BC

This is random, but I came across this interview with ESPN's Ian Fitzsimmons. In it he talks about gambling on the upcoming College Football season and early bets. It can be your typical radio appearance until he gets to BC [BC talk starts at 6:50]. He loves BC and thinks we can win eight or nine. Get on the bandwagon now folks.

Disagreeing with Herald's Players to Watch list

The Herald put up a pretty innocuous five Players to Watch article and it got me thinking. Their list might be the best five but they are all the established, veteran guys. We know what to expect from that group. What I find more interesting are the players who might emerge or breakout. With that here are my three players to watch. These guys will really determine the season.

1. Anthony Brown. His health and ability to pass are the most important unknowns heading into the season.
2. Ray Smith. We are young and thin at DT. Smith needs to play well and play a lot.
3. Colton Lichtenberg. It always comes down to the kicker with Daz. If this is the year we finally break seven wins, it will be critical that Colton kick well from the start.

Best of luck to Ryan Day

Ohio State suspended Urban Meyer for three games for his actions related to Zach Smith's issues. That means interim Head Coach Ryan Day will get his first experience as a head coach this year. Congrats to him.

Day has a long history with BC -- and this blog. While I am sure Day would have preferred his first shot at something like this under different circumstance, this is still a great opportunity. If he team performs well, Day will be a top candidate for any openings this offseason. The accelerated time table does hurt his chances of ever coming back to BC as a head coach. But if anything the coaching carousel is unpredictable and Day might still end up at BC.

Final scrimmage complete

Addazio wrapped up his final scrimmage and the team will now start prepping for UMass. In the video below, he doesn't seem that excited, but the reports on the scrimmage were positive. Brown looked good and Dillon shined in limited action. Both backup QBs played well and the penalties were less of an issue. To an outsider, that all seems like good news. Maybe Addazio is just trying to contain expectations. Or maybe he also knows scrimmages don't matter -- UMass does.

BC gets votes but remains unranked

It is not where you start but how you finish. At least that is what I am telling myself as BC starts the season outside the Top 25 in the AP. After some high profile people went on a limb for BC this summer, I thought we might start the season ranked. 

In total BC received 18 votes, good for 34th. If the season starts well, it shouldn't take long to move into the official Top 25.

BC's schedule is demanding, we face four ranked teams. Let's hope by the end of the season, we have at least four quality wins and are ranked too.

Strachan talks

The injured player that we are all focusing on is Anthony Brown, but on there is an equally important piece returning on the Defense. Connor Strachan went down early in his senior year and recieve a medical redshirt. He's seemingly healthy and back now for one final season. 

The upside of his injury was the rapid development of the younger players on the depth chart. Now, if everyone stays healthy, we should have our deepest and most talented LB group since the 2007-2009 days.

Addazio not thrilled with 2nd scrimmage

BC provided some notes on Saturday's scrimmage without providing much info. Brown took his first live snaps and Dillon sat out. That's the only concrete news.

Steve Addazio provided more of the real reaction out of the scrimmage. He didn't like it. You can see below, but it seems like neither side was crisp and there was plenty of confusion...and lethargy. When prompted to discuss the QBs, he said none were that great. We know from the write ups, that the D controlled, but Addazio doesn't really give them credit either.

It is nothing to get worked up about. It is only an intra squad scrimmage. This is about working out the kinks so that the opener is crisp.

First BC win of the school year is in Women's Soccer

Classes are still a few weeks away, but the sports season has started. The Women's Soccer team started the year off right with a win over Quinnipiac. Olivia Vaughn scored two of BC's four goals. Their season continues Sunday against Northeastern.

BC not making a big deal about Brown practicing

We've seem to hit the doldrums of summer training camp. Things are no longer new and there isn't much concrete reporting or updates. If you read between the lines, the biggest news to me is that BC is not making a bigger deal of Anthony Brown's play. The returning starter is clearly taking snaps with the first team but they don't mention any of his throws. That leaves me to overthink this whole thing. Are they not mentioning his throws or completions because he is not making any or because it is so routine it doesn't merit a mention?

Friday will bring more vague practice reporting. However, Saturday's scrimmage will be a big deal. If BC is still not mentioning Brown's play by then, it will be time for us to truly overthink this and worry.

Watch Dillon run over people for fun

Someone at the ACC office must really like AJ Dillon, because they keep making highlight reel videos for him. Imagine if he is even better this year? The ACC will start producing 10-hour mini-series of those highlights. Enjoy.

Still no love from Jerry Palm

Hype, hype, hype. That's all we've heard and read about BC this summer. Dillon a darkhorse candidate! BC a Top 25 team! Even getting votes from coaches! But there are still a few skeptics. Like CBS's Jerry Palm. He puts together extensive Bowl Projections and still sees BC staying home. Palm has been off the bandwagon all summer, but I thought seeing other projections coupled with the positive perception might get him to include BC for his latest projections. (I also understand changing the projections during the summer before any game is sort of pointless.)

BC will go bowling this year. The schedule has enough wins built in to make getting to bowl doable. If Palm is right and BC has a losing record this year, I think we will have more than a bowl game to worry about.

Viral tweet shows what's right and still wrong

Did you see this Monday?

4/5-star recruits over the past 5 years…
Texas - 60
Boston Coll - 4

Record over the past 5 years…
Texas - 31-32
BC - 31-33

NFL Draft picks past 5 years:
Texas - 11
BC - 14

— Hidden Agenda Generator (@DavidHaleESPN) August 13, 2018

It got a decent amount of attention and led to many people complimenting Addazio on his talent identification and development. He does deserve credit and it has been one of the things he's delivered on. But the tweet is a backhanded compliment since it also points out that despite the influx of talent, BC's record under Addazio is still under .500. He's building a pipeline that develops talent at a better rate than Texas -- at a private school in Boston -- yet is not winning at a high rate. If Addazio doesn't break through his ceiling soon, most of this will be for naught. Talent is primary and should win out in most cases. If you have talent and are not winning then you have to question how your coaches are managing the talent when it counts.

Zach Allen press going beyond Boston

Another day, another story on Zach Allen. While not at Dillon levels yet, Allen is getting attention beyond the local BC and ACC Channels. This one deals with his background in Connecticut and his intense work ethic. It will be interesting to see how Zach's play on the field changes this year, since he will be the focal point. Last year without Landry he made big strides, but was still on the field with plenty of veteran talent. This year the talent remains but it is a bit untested. Leaving Allen to fill the void and serve as a role model for his teammates.

Time for the McDonald bandwagon?

BC held its first scrimmage of the preseason. They didn't provide specific individual stats, but based on the write up and interviews, it seems to have gone well. Addazio voiced plenty of frustration about penalties, but other than that, seemed to like the effort.

He also responded to a question about backup QB Matt McDonald and said he was one of the most accurate quarterbacks he's ever been around. This follows other write ups about McDonald's surprising and efficient play. So I ask, is it time to start the McDonald bandwagon? I like Brown and I am encouraged that he's doing better, but all this team really needs is a guy who can make good throws. With everyone trying to stop the run, receiving matchups and short throws will be open. Maybe McDonald is the guy to hit those throws and lead an offensive explosion. Even if Brown is healthy, I hope we see McDonald is some mop up duty and he turns these practice moments into real wins.

NJ Linebacker commits

BC ended the week with some good news -- New Jersey Linebacker Shitta Sillah verbaled to Addazio. He's a three star with the services and considered a Top 20 player in New Jersey. His Power 5 offers included Michigan State, Purdue, Duke, Syracuse, Rutgers and Nebraska. He's tall but not filled out yet, so maybe he could move to some sort of DE role. Welcome aboard, Shitta.

Basketball hosting elite guard

New York shooting guard Joe Girard has a pretty impressive list schools. He is set to visit Syracuse, Michigan, Notre Dame, Penn State and Duke. But before he gets to most, he used one of his official visits to come to BC. The 2019 recruit has been on Christian's radar for a while, so it is nice that they've moved him from potential to a true campus visitor.

Brown gets media attention, which means he's ok

Anthony Brown is the starter for Steve Addazio. As much as Daz hedges and downplays the opening battle and Brown's recovery, this is not like last year. Brown will start the first game at QB.

I haven't watched practice nor do I have access to Addazio. I just know that two features on the QB in the same day (New Jersey paper | the Herald) means that is he probably ok and will the top of the depth charge until he does something to lose the job.

Thoughts on Media Day

BC posted a quick behind the scenes video, but there are full video below (with my thoughts).

By way of his promotion Campanile now gets direct media time. Nothing too revealing but he does talk about Hamp Cheevers progression and his expectations of his jump in play.

I always enjoy Jim Reid's media sessions because he's so passionate. Sometimes with older coaches you wonder how they connect with young players, but with Reid you can see how players would like him.

Loeffler got more time and most of it was spent on Brown's development. Loeffler comes off as knowledgeable and presentable but isn't as dynamic in front of the camera as the other Coordinators.

Addazio spoke for a long time. He seems pretty excited about his players and his team. He is saying the right things. The small -- but important thing to me -- was that Addazio had a shirt with the throwback logo! BC needs to make a logo switch!

What to expect out of BC's Media Day

Tuesday is BC's annual Media Day. Since the team is only a week into practices, there is usually nothing revelatory about who is doing what or who is shining and rising up the depth chart. It will be interesting to see how the local media approaches Addazio. I imagine there will be a few topics:

1. Expectations. BC is getting national attention and votes in the Coaches Poll. This is the most preseason hype to any Addazio team. Will he use the Media Day to raise expectations or lower them?

2. Follow up on Smith. There will be a few new media members there. Will any even broach the Smith-Addazio history or just let Saturday night's statement stand?

I also am interested to see how much of a push they give Dillon. This could be a huge statistical season for the second year RB. He puts up the type of highlights that the College Football media love. He's an under the radar Heisman candidate now. Does BC give him a big push Tuesday to let the local media know that Dillon is going to be a national name?

Watch Anthony Brown talk about being back

Because he's been sidelined with a knee injury, we haven't heard much from Anthony Brown. Friday he spoke to the media for an extended time. He didn't reveal much, but his presence and demeanor do show a level of confidence. I hope he is this calm and confident because the knee feels good and he's ready for a big year.

Addazio, Jarmond release statements to Globe about Smith

Addazio and Jarmond finally did the smart thing and released individual statements on Zach Smith. (It seems like the Globe was the only outlet that got the statements.) A written release was probably safer and better than making comments in front of the cameras. They say the right things without getting into the specifics of what each knew and when they knew it. It will be interesting if this is the last the two talk about it and if the national media guys start to dig into the issue and Smith's history.

The BC Bookstore inadvertently takes the BCU meme to the next level

This is real. As pointed out by Heights and Lows, the Boston College Bookstore is selling a shirt that actually has "Boston College University" on it. As much fun as I have with the BCU talk on Twitter, this is a big screwup by an official partner of BC.

If I were to sell knockoff BC gear, the school wouldn't take long to send me a cease and desist. If I wanted to be an official partner, I would pay a fortune in licensing fees. How can a group that works so directly with BC make such a screw up?

Mistakes happen. But what concerns me is that it got this far done the line. It really says that no one is paying attention to our licensing, apparel or the Bookstore. When Jarmond changes and updates our logo, I hope he has a few people who pay close attention to how it is used and that all uses help promote and celebrate Boston College.

Addazio disappoints in response to Smith question

As expected Addazio was asked about his prior relationship with his former staffer Zach Smith. This is what he said:

Steve Addazio on whether he knew about Zach Smith’s 2009 arrest for battery when he hired the WR coach at Temple in 2011: “As University policy, I don’t comment on other institutions, okay?”

— Riley Overend (@Riley_0_) August 3, 2018

Sadly, this answer is predictable. It is also a missed opportunity. With a well-crafted, thoughtful response, Addazio could have stated something and closed his portion of this saga. Instead he obfuscated a non-answer. If he is lucky this goes away. But if this brings down Urban Meyer, look for the media to come back to Addazio and demand an answer. If he is not prepared for that, he could keep making this worse, like his buddy Meyer is doing.

The fact is that Addazio can talk about other institutions. He does it all the time. He can also talk about friends and colleagues in legal or professional trouble. He has done it before. Maybe BC advised him to avoid the topic since it was not a BC issue. But it is a Steve Addazio issue.

What I would have suggested is something formal and reviewed by BC's legal department that addresses his relationship with Smith. It sounds as if Courtney Smith advocated that Zach be given a second chance after 2009. That would probably provide Addazio with enough professional cover to explain the hire. It would also enable him to show respect for domestic violence, Courtney and explain what he has learned.

This all might blow over and be a non-story. But if it really does take down Urban Meyer and Ohio State AD Gene Smith, Addazio better be ready for the media to hound him. And he better have a better statement prepared.

One last preview

And now the Football begins...

Two BC people probably need to address the Zach Smith situation

If you haven't been following the Zach Smith story, here is the short version. Ohio State fired Zach Smith after his history of domestic violence incidents became public. Urban Meyer publicly claimed he was not aware of a 2015 issue. That claim is now being challenged and Ohio State has put Meyer on leave. Former BC Assistant Ryan Day is the Interim Head Coach. While this is a Ohio State issue, because of the old boys network running college sports, this story does touch BC in two obvious ways.

First, Zach Smith worked for Addazio at Temple during the 2011 season. This was after Smith's 2009 arrest in Florida for beating his then pregnant wife. It would be nearly impossible in a town like Gainesville and with the type of organization that Meyer's runs, that this arrest was not known among all the football staff. I don't know what sort of relationship Addazio had with Smith then. I don't know what the Temple policy was on domestic violence nor background checks. I don't know what either Mr. or Mrs. Smith told Addazio about the abuse. The only thing we do know is that Addazio hired him after an arrest. My suggestion is that Addazio prepare a factual statement about the hire, his sympathy for the victim, how he has learned from it and how that experience has shaped his and BC's policy now.

Martin Jarmond never hired Zach Smith, but he was a key leader in the department that oversaw football at Ohio State. Jarmond may be technically off the hook since he never would have been in direct position either as an AD or Head Coach to fire any of Meyer's staffers. But having seen firsthand how sweeping something under the rug hurts the victim and all those who are impacted by the coverup, should lead to Jarmond establishing a clear policy on domestic abuse issues and prior criminal arrests. He should also prepare a factual statement on the issue and how it will influence BC's actions going forward.

I would like to think BC does thorough background checks on all employees. I know of past athletic staffers with DUIs who still got hired, but I have never heard of any issues related to violence that were pushed through. I suggest a strict policy -- managed by HR -- be established. Ignoring these sorts of things are never worth it and don't help the victims. We rarely take a leadership position in College Sports. Why not be the first to take a stand on something like this?

Based on current information, I don't think anything Addazio or Jarmond did related to Smith would put their BC positions in jeopardy. However, that doesn't mean they shouldn't clarify their roles and explain how that will never happen at BC.

ACC Coaches finally have something nice to say about BC

Every year the best part of Athlon's College Football preview is the anonymous quote from a rival coach. The types of comments fall into three categories:

1. The rare gushing. Usually saved for Alabama. This has a coach saying "they do everything right...blah blah blah." It is complimentary but a bit detached as if the great team is unattainable and not really a fair comparison.

2. The backhanded compliment. "They do a lot with a little. Well coached, but the talent isn't there, etc" These are usually the type of comments people make about BC. It is harmless but clearly condescending.

3. Something really catty. This is when a coach makes an outright criticism of a team, usually in a demeaning or dismissive way. "I don't know what they are doing..." BC would get this on occasion.

This summer's Athlon profile of BC is unique. Take a look.

-- "Our coaches were laughing when watching game tape of (AJ) Dillon. Not laughing at him, laughing at how ridiculously good he is."-- An opposing ACC assistant coach

What a surprise. It is deserved praise for Dillon and refreshingly candid. It also doesn't dismiss him or BC. Respect, I guess. It feels nice.

Another solid pick up for Addazio

The recruiting momentum continued as BC added a Florida OLine prospect to their current recruiting class. Maurice Smith's verbal means another 3 star with plenty of suitors. His Power 5 offers included Mississippi State and Indiana. He's from Miami Central, so he's playing against elite competition. (Miami had yet to offer.)

Smith's height may be keeping some of Florida's bigger programs away, but I trust Brian White on Florida guys. (White is listed as one of his recruiters, along with new OL coach Phil Trautwein.)

Addazio tends to slow down recruiting once practices start, so I expect a small spike this week and then things to cool off as the staff shifts their focus back to getting the players ready.

A reminder about last year

As I keep reading others write about this year's BC team, I see everything from "break out" and  "sleeper"  to potential five win letdowns. The sites that share their prediction models seem to put BC's win total right around six again. But this tweet reminded me how even the best experts couldn't get a good feel on BC last year. Doing so well against the spread (8-1-1) is almost a backhanded compliment. The sports books don't care about Addazio or BC, they just want to be right and close to the line. Yet they couldn't get a good feel for BC -- before or after the offensive explosion.

Assuming BC stays healthy this year, I think we will be a little more predictable for the oddsmakers. Personally I would gladly trade doing well against the spread for actual Ws instead.

BC makes offer to Mass product

Recruiting had been quite for a few weeks...at least on social media. We know that some of the assistants are on the road, but there are still kids visiting. And seeing the new Field House probably didn't dull Mass DE Greg Crippen's excitement when BC offered him. He already holds offers from Michigan and Purdue. It would be nice to lockdown a local kid who is generating that type of interest.

So excited and thankful to have received an offer to play football from Boston College today! @BCFootball Thank you so much! @BCCoachAddazio @CoachTrautFB @BCCoachJReid @JoeSuIlivan @cfavino22 pic.twitter.com/G4lOJy1Mqy

— Greg CRIPPEN (@gregcrippen) July 26, 2018

Everyone is talking about the Field House

It was a big day for BC's newest facility. They announced the name and gave the media a tour. What we've been calling the indoor practice facility is now officially the Fish Field House in honor of former BOT Chair John Fish.

We've known and followed the Field House for a long time, but the official unveiling is a nice gesture. Anything that gets people talking about BC Football in a positive light helps. Jarmond and Addazio referenced that this will also be used for other sports (so that this is about more than football). It does represent a commitment to winning and finally catches BC up with most of the P5 teams.

What I find disheartening is some BC fans criticizing the facility. While you can question the value or long-term importance of major college sports, you can't argue with what BC did here. They funded this without major debt and without leaning on current student revenues to offset the cost. If we are going to ask BC students to compete in major sports, we need to give them the resources to compete. Based purely on wanting the best for our current BC students, it is no different than investing in state of the art classrooms or dorms or whatever.

There will always be something new that BC needs. At this point the campus is always under construction and college sports are in an arms race. A Conte renovation and an upgrade to the basketball facilities are probably next. But for now it is nice to enjoy our shiny new building.

Dillon named Preseason ACC POY

A day after I said the ACC Media doesn't respect BC, they went out and voted AJ Dillon the Preseason Player of the Year. Seeing Dillon honored as well as three other Eagles on the All Conference Preseason team, makes the 4th place finish all that more surprising. I guess they don't trust Addazio to put this talent together in a way to challenge the top of the division.

It is a great honor for Dillon and will raise his profile that much more. He was going to be the focal point of the offense. Now he will be the focal point of the media coverage too. If his game is developing and the other guys step up, BC's offense should be explosive.

ACC Media not as excited as some national pundits

Phil Steele thinks BC is a Top 25 team. The football media that watches all the ACC are not as optimistic. They voted BC 4th in the Atlantic Division. While none of this matters right now, I actually trust Steele over the collective wisdom of the ACC folks.

While they have access to Addazio and have to keep tabs on BC, most of the ACC media members are not paying attention to BC. They are in other markets and for many, BC is just a weird fit. We've had some nice moments, but for most there is no reason to expect more than 7-6, which sounds 4th place-ish. Steele, on the other hand, has formulas and stats that he leans on. So if his stats say BC is experienced in XYZ or did this or that well or has an easier schedule than perceived, he can run with it. Steele's metrics are not perfect and he often points out when they went wrong. But being different and occasionally picking a surprise team is how he built his name.

Truthfully, if I had been at the Media Days and voted, I would probably have selected BC 2nd in the division. I don't trust Addazio nor do I think this team is great, but I think it is a down year for the division and all the teams have flaws and question marks.

Lessons from Last Chance U Season 3

I just finished up the latest season of Netflix's Last Chance U and highly recommend any football fans watches. The primary focus has moved to Independence Community College in Kansas, but there is still a lot to learn about college football as it applies to BC. (There is also an epilogue on the main personalities from Season 1 and Season 2.) Here are some of my takeaways. SPOILERS AHEAD.

We don't know everything about some "elite" recruits 

One of the featured players is former Florida State QB Malik Henry. If someone like Henry ever signed with BC, the fanbase would flip out and assume that Henry would be on his way to winning four Heismans at BC and a few National Championships. Yet watching this guy play, you wonder how anyone -- including Florida State -- thought he would be so good. I think with someone like Henry, the hype starts early, perpetuates itself and no one ever stops to ask if the kid is really a great player. He's pretty thin and smallish, so you wonder if he could ever take a pounding. Based on the game action, neither his arm nor his legs seems special. Finally he is a royal pain in the ass who assumes he is great and smarter than everyone. As he hopped around high schools (four in total), how did no one realize he was a fraud? How did Jimbo Fisher not realize he would be a challenge? I think Addazio leans on "character" a bit much when he talks about BC. But I do think BC's emphasis on a player coming to camp, and being around the staff a lot, has value. You can start to find out what these kids are really like and who is just hype and ego.

Talent > coaching

Like the previous seasons, you start to see how great talent can cover up a lot of mistakes and make coaches look good. Independence's Coach Jason Brown admits as much throughout the doc. It is chaos on the sidelines and the practices appear very disorganized. Brown is futzing around with all sorts of administrative stuff (like pizza and uniforms) and yet they are still winning. They even overcome all sorts of infighting among the coaches, the players, and the coaches vs players. I want smart, organized, and stable coaches. But shows like this remind me that most champions are winning with talent more than they are winning with great coaching.

Still no BC presence

Last year's background clip of a BC game remains as close was we've gotten to the Netflix series. None of the players are in the BC mix. An assistant from New Mexico State (who works with Spaz and Doug Martin) shows up to recruit, but that's about it. That is probably for the best. Although they've moved from Mississippi to Kansas, the typical JUCO player remains such a bad fit for BC, that I have no problem with Addazio avoiding that route.

See the press conferences

There is still not a lot coming out of the ACC Media Days. (Maybe Saturday?) Here is video of Addazio, Sweeney and Allen talking to the press.

Addazio doesn't say much in press conference

At this point I don't expect Steve Addazio to create some sort of controversy or get the College Football world's attention like Larry Fedora did. However, I wouldn't mind a little insight into the team or some specifics for the fans. If the opening press conference was any indication, we are not getting much out o the ACC Media Days. The biggest news -- which we already knew -- was that Brown was back and will be cleared by the time practices start in August.

Otherwise it was generic talk about team chemistry. There was an answer to a weird question about teams adjusting to the weather. He reiterated his desire to play good D and run the ball. Addazio also talked a little about his history with Paul Pasqualoni. But that was it. Very little about what's going on in football. Nothing on the uptick in recruiting. He didn't even get a chance to talk up facilities.

On Friday most of the one on one interview content will seep out. Hopefully he said something in those sessions that give us an idea of what to expect, how this year will be different and how he is dealing with the expectations.

ACC Network focus of Day 1 of ACC Media Days

During his state of the conference press conference John Swofford spent much of his time on the ACC Network. The few big takeaways were that the conference is going to put ACC Matchups on the Network right away in 2019. The opening weekend ACC game is rumored to be BC-Virginia Tech. I don't know if we should be honored or worried about being first.

Swofford also shared how far behind financially the ACC revenues are compared to the SEC and Big Ten. The Network should shrink that gap a bit.

Carriage is the final and most important issue. Who cares about the ACC Network if no one can see it. Swofford claims ESPN is going to leverage its other assets to force the cable and satellite providers' hands. ESPN seems pretty protective and fearful of cord cutting, so I don't know how much hardball they will play. I am hoping that if the major carriers don't open up the season with the network, that fans will have other access points.

Thoughts on Connelly's BC preview

SB Nation's Bill Connelly posted his annual, thorough and statistically based BC preview. It is well worth the read and he is pretty optimistic about BC's future. However, he doesn't see BC breaking through its seven-win ceiling this year. I agree with most of what Connelly writes with the exception of these few things.

His optimism about the Offense
I don't think the midseason explosion we saw in the offense last year was an aberration, but I also don't think it will be the new norm. If you look at what Addazio and Loeffler have accomplished together and apart, they are rarely producing elite, efficient offenses. There are a few spikes, but more often than not (including last year) they are in the lower third of college offenses. I think we be better with Dillon and an healthy line. I do expect more from Brown. Yet I don't think we will ever be a Top 30 offense. Talent can change things, but Addazio (and Loeffler's) track record says that the way they prepare, teach and manage has a clear ceiling.

His worries about depth
Connelly mentions a few times that if BC "stays healthy..." with an emphasis on the D. I am not worried about our depth. To his credit Addazio has upgraded the talent level and seemingly every replacement the past two years has been nearly as good as the guy who was starting. Avoiding injuries is important but I can't see any player changing the course of the season. We lost Landry for most of last year and still played well on that side of the ball.

His view of the schedule
He worries that BC could start out hot and play well but would still suffer due to the difficulty of the final stretch of the schedule. I don't share his fear. Only Clemson has established a consistency that makes their game a longshot. All the other teams have been beaten recently (Louisville, FSU) or have some significant new challenges (new coach, new coordinator, new QB). They are plenty of winnable games in the second portion of the schedule.

We are getting closer

Lots of sites and blogs have countdowns to the season. Today's from IMG was pretty good.

#CountdownToKickoff: 4️⃣7️⃣

“TOUCHDOWN BOSTON COLLEGE!HE DID IT! HE DID IT! FLUTIE DID IT!”@DougFlutie’s iconic Hail Mary TD pass in 1984 lifted @BCFootball over Miami 4️⃣7️⃣-45 👊💥

🔊 Credit - Kelley Communications #WeAreBC🦅 #HailFlutie pic.twitter.com/DVjjMZJgIj

— IMG Audio (@IMGAudio) July 16, 2018

Sean Marshall back trying to win for Frates

If you have followed Sean Marshall's summer ball experiences the past two years, you know he puts teams together to honor his friend Pete Frates and raise money for ALS. He's back again this summer to honor Frates, more ALS patients and to win it all. The update is above. Good luck to his team!

A few construction updates

This week BC released an update on all their construction projects -- sports and non-sports. The important dates for Football remain July 27 and August 3. On the 27, the school will file its Certificate of Occupancy. On August 3, official Football practices begin inside.

Dillon keeps talking up his teammates

AJ Dillon is clearly a fun guy to watch. Based on all the quotes he's been giving the past twelve months, I think he is probably a fun guy to play with. Dillon is often talking up his team in the media, encouraging them on Social Media and giving shoutouts to teammates and recruits on Twitter. When done well, that sort of leadership builds camaraderie and confidence. Look what he had to say to ESPN about his expectations for the season.

"I'm most excited to open up some eyes around the nation. I feel like we've got a lot of great pieces on this team, offensively and defensively, and I feel like we're going to shock a lot of people this year, so I'm excited for that. We've got a bunch of great senior leadership, and we've got guys who are really invested and working hard. The focus is indescribable. Everyone is dialed in right now, everyone is trying to get the most of each other. Walking around you have this positive vibe about this team and what we're going to bring to the table and you know everybody's working really hard. I've never been a part of anything like this before."

Let's hope Dillon's beliefs are shared by everyone on the team.

Report: FSU thinking of adding Lacrosse

A college lacrosse blog used a Freedom of Information request to look into rumors of Florida State starting a DI college lacrosse program. While most of the official channels within the university focused on a Women's Team, there has been talk by their administration the past few years about including Lax in their master plan. Aside from the growing popularity of the sport, their rival's (University of Florida) expansion into lacrosse seems to be driving some of the interest at FSU.

What does this have to do with BC? While we can't do FOA requests to a private school, I imagine the topic has been discussed in official channels lately. We know all of BC's recent Athletic Directors have gotten the question from the Alumni base. Jarmond has repeated the same old narratives about the challenges of bringing back the Men's team. If other ACC team's expand, it will only make those excuses more hollow.

Who is going to breakout this season?

If this year is going to be special a few players are going to have to make the leap. The ACC Network predicts that White, Robinson and Lamont will have big, critical seasons for BC. See the video below. 

Bowman getting media push

It didn't take long for the media to turn their attention from the new Clipper Jerome Robinson, to returning BC Eagle Ky Bowman. The Herald is just the latest to feature him, but he's been in the Globe and in a bunch of College Hoops previews. Most have glowing quotes from Christian. Bowman deserves the attention, but this sort of push doesn't come without BC's help. 

I like that they are pushing him. Perhaps it was part of a promise that if he returned, he would be one of the most well known -- and respected players -- in the ACC. I hope it also is a signal of a big season and that Christian and BC think this team can exceed expectations.

BC not the only college battling ridiculous locals

Lasell College -- a small liberal arts school in Newton -- wants to put up four light towers on their small athletic fields. The lights are within Newton's current zoning laws. But in an all to familiar story, they have been battling neighbors for two years in court about the lights.

I understand that people can fight for protection of their neighborhood and property. But it certainly feels like everyone in the town of Newton calls their lawyer at the mention of any local college wanting to cut a blade of grass. The list of hoops that BC has jumped through over the years is endless. I feel for Lasell as four light towers doesn't seem like much of an intrusion. And like many of the residents who complain about BC, I ask "did they not see the college when they bought their homes?"

In writing this up, I looked at satellite images of Newton North and Newton South high schools to see if their fields had light towers. Based on the images it appears they don't, so at least the locals aren't using a double standard for the colleges. But that still doesn't make any of this reasonable.

Lasell seems to be winning small victories in court. I hope it continues. It would only mean good things for BC.

BC announces ACC Media Days selections

Zach Allen and Tommy Sweeney will represent BC at the ACC Media Days in July in Charlotte. There are no mandates for who goes, but traditionally a school selects a senior from each side of the ball. They also tend to pick guys who represent the school well and can handle themselves in interviews. It is also an expectations setter because they also expect these guys to have big seasons.

Allen is getting a lot of attention. On the Offensive side of the ball, Dillon has been getting most of the focus. However, if other teams sell out to stop the run, Sweeney can have a big year. Best of luck to both guys.

Phil Steele high on Will Harris

Phil Steele's All America team is a bit different from the others. While Allen (Second Team) and Dillon (Third Team) were predictable, I didn't expect Will Harris to get first team honors. To Steele's credit, he watches a lot of tape and obviously thinks highly of Harris. Steele also talks to multiple coaches on a staff, so someone is talking up Will Harris to him. I hope it is a good sign.

Happy Fourth of July

God bless America...and Boston College.

Another BC preview

I am always interested when unbiased college football folks do deep dives on BC. While they might not know as much, they also aren't as emotionally involved so there may be less pessimism (or optimism) in the preview. This video is long, but it does go game-by-game...and has the predictable 7-5 victory total. It does call for an upset of Miami and a huge season for Dillon too. 

Denis makes Sporting News 1st All America list

BC's most recognized DB picked up another honor as the Sporting News named him to its preseason All America list. The preseason lists are very important because there is momentum and awareness to these awards. The voters don't watch every game. So for positions like DBs, where they are only paying attention to the biggest names, the remainder of the ballot is often filled with guys who were on the preseason list (assuming they had a statistically strong season).

Denis' big stats are at risk given the turnover in the secondary. He will be getting tougher assignments and probably won't have as many INT opportunities. However, with all the hype, if he has a good season, he will be swimming in national accolades.

Media taking notice of BC's class

This article breaksdown the latest recruits and BC's ranking among other programs. 

This Rivals' article focusing on many teams but highlights BC in the middle. It also points out our success in the Midwest. Traditionally the Midwest has been a key point for BC, but usually in certain pockets (like Cincy). With this class, we seem to be covering the region as a whole.

Here is Garwo talking about coming to BC and how the current running backs were influential in his decision.