Boston College vs. Virginia Cavaliers: Keys to the Football Game

Boston College vs. Virginia Cavaliers Football History

Despite the even line, history heavily favors BC as the Eagles have taken 7 of 8 games played. They faced of last year which ended in a narrow win for BC 27-24. That UVA team was less talented though, 0-4 heading into the game, whereas this one is 3-1. Of course the BC team this year is also stronger at 4-1 right now versus the 2-3 they were heading into that game.

In their inaugural matchup Head Coach Bill O’Brien addressed how this game is a kick off to the crucial conference play is a cool manner noting that “[BC] has to approach every game the same way” while also noting that “Virginia is a very good team they’re three and one, coming off a bye and were coming off a very tough game, they’re ahead of us so we got to catch up this week.”

Importantly, Coach O’Brien was non-committal on the status of Tommy Castellanos stating “I think he’s doing all right, he showed up ready to go today and had a decent practice and you know Grayson [James] will be ready to go that can play, no doubt about it.”

Key Players for Boston College

Donovan Ezeiruaku – Defensive End

Donovan Ezeiruaku one-upped his elite play to start the year with an all timer last week. Ezeiruaku had three sacks and 14 total tackles last week in a dominating performance. He’s beginning to play himself into first round NFL draft stock early in the year. If he continues against tougher opponents like UVA it’s hard to argue against him.

Even if Boston College’s stalwart QB is back this week, Ezeiruaku is going to be key in preventing UVA from getting the ball deep and running the football. The heart and soul of this defense Ezeiruaku has truly been BC’s MVP early on.

Tommy Castellanos – Quarterback

The offense stalled hard without Tommy Castellanos last week. The Eagles need their starter under center if they want a real chance to win this game. While Grayson James performed admirably last week, it was a far cry from what Castellanos has been able to do when running this offense.

The lack of dynamic plays was evident; and against a much stronger opponent this week James will likely struggle to move the ball. As such, Castellanos is as important as he has ever been and the team needs him to kick off their main conference play stretch on the right note.

Key Players for University of Virginia

Malachi Fields – Wide Receiver

Malachi Fields has been an absolute weapon in the early going for UVA. He is already up to 349 yards and two touchdowns on 24 receptions; good for nearly double the next receiver on this team. Fields has been known for having disappearing acts over the years, but in his fourth year he has to prove that he can be the alpha.

So far he looks good; and his highlight reel plays are now supplemented by good steady football in the early part of the season. UVA is going to rely on Fields in this game and going forward to be their offensive spark plug.

Antonio Clary – Defensive Back

Antonio Clary has been a do it all safety for UVA early and is making an impact at every level of the game. He has averaged just over 10 tackles a game adding 3 passes defensed, an interception and a fumble recovery. Clary is helping disrupt the passing game either playing back and reading the quarterback or blitzing and forcing the quarterback to escape his relentless pressure. Clary is going to be key in stopping BC from pushing the ball downfield to Lewis Bond and company while also trying to stop Treshaun Ward from breaking free.

How Boston College Wins This Football Game

Boston College has a tough road to winning this football game. If Castellanos is healthy then that road gets a little easier, but as it stands it looks like he’ll be a little restricted or James will be under center. If that’s the case, BC will need to get the running game going and play strong defense to win.

More likely than not, defense will be the biggest decider in this game. Ezeiruaku applying consistent pressure and the back half of the secondary taking advantage of mistakes is going to be essential.

The oddsmakers are being a little friendly to BC in this contest. However, it’s hard to argue with how well BC has played these last couple weeks when the odds were stacked against them in key situations. Look for more of the same as long as Bill O’Brien is getting the most out of his players and no matter what expect a physical gritty game this week.