A couple of weeks ago, I predicted that Boston College would upset Clemson, although they ultimately fell short. This week I’m back at it again with another BC football prediction.
On Saturday, BC will match up with number 2 ranked Notre Dame in Chestnut Hill, MA at Alumni Stadium on network television. Here’s why BC will win Saturday.
1. BC Nearly Knocked Off Clemson in Death Valley
Two weeks ago, the Eagles gave number one ranked Clemson a real scare on Halloween in South Carolina. Although Clemson would come back and win that game 34-28, the Eagles played three quarters of dominant football. If BC can string together another effort like they did in Death Valley, they can easily compete with Notre Dame and possibly knock them off.
BC will have a chance of redemption against another powerhouse program, but this time they are in the comforts of Alumni Stadium. Although there will be no fans, they are used to the environment of their own stadium, and should feel less pressured at home.
2. BC is the More Prepared and Motivated Team
This Saturday marks BC’s annual Red Bandanna Game where they honor the heroic Welles Crowther. BC has already beaten Miami, USC, and Florida State in this traditional game and they are looking to add Notre Dame to that list of powerhouse programs. BC even has special jerseys made for the Red Bandanna game which are making their debut this weekend. The college football world has been reacting and praising these jerseys all week long.
There is also a player more motivated for this game than most of his teammates: Phil Jurkovec. BC’s QB is a transfer from Notre Dame and has emerged at his new alma mater. He is close friends with most of the players for the Fighting Irish, but will want to get revenge on his past team. It is coach Jeff Hafley’s job to make sure he remains focused.
3. BC is a Program Full of Adjustments
Since coach Jeff Hafley arrived on the Heights, BC has become a more analytical and adjustment focused program. We have seen this time and time again this season, whether it be the second-half comeback win against Texas State, the second-half offense explosion against Duke, or the gutsy overtime win against Pittsburgh. This team is all about learning from their mistakes and experiences, and that is exactly the scenario when they face Notre Dame on Saturday. Expect this to be a cleaner team than you saw in the second half of the Clemson game.
College football fans, be sure to tune into the Holy War at 3:30 EST on ABC as it will surely be a classic. Do not be surprised if the (+14) Eagles start strong early and finish cleanly. For Notre Dame fans out there, watch out!
Photo credit: Michael Dwyer/AP
