Eagles Look to Secure Seven Wins, Build Momentum for Bowl Season and Beyond
Chestnut Hill, MA — The Boston College Eagles (6-5, 3-4 ACC) will wrap up their regular season with a pivotal home matchup against the Pittsburgh Panthers (7-4, 3-4 ACC) this Saturday at Alumni Stadium. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. and will be broadcast nationally on The CW.
This game carries significant weight for the Eagles, who are looking to notch their seventh regular-season win for the first time since 2018. With bowl eligibility already secured, Boston College has a chance to propel itself into bowl season with critical momentum as the program continues to evolve under first-year head coach Bill O’Brien.
What’s at Stake
Saturday’s game isn’t just about improving a win total; it’s about setting a tone. A win would mark another milestone in O’Brien’s inaugural season, giving the Eagles their first .500 or better record in ACC play since 2019.
O’Brien made it clear this week how much finishing strong means for the program.
“I mention it. I think that’s a big deal,” O’Brien said. “I think Pitt’s going to be a very challenging game, but we really want to finish on a winning note. We’ve got to play well. We’ve got to play a really, really good game in order to beat these guys. They’re really well-coached. They’re a physically and mentally tough team, so it’s a big challenge.”
A win on Saturday wouldn’t just end the regular season on a high note; it would set up Boston College for its first chance at an eight-win season since 2009, a benchmark that signals progress for a program hungry to move past years of mediocrity.
Scouting Pitt
Pitt enters Alumni Stadium as a tough, physical team led by head coach Pat Narduzzi. Known for their defensive discipline and grind-it-out style, the Panthers will test Boston College in the trenches.
The Panthers’ quarterback situation remains uncertain due to injuries, but their running game, spearheaded by dynamic back Desmond Reed, remains a significant weapon.
“Great player. Really fast. Good quickness. Good out of the backfield. Good runner,” O’Brien said of Reed. “You better break down and tackle him because if he makes one guy miss, he’s hard to get down once he gets to that second and third level.”
Defensively, Pitt prides itself on physicality and disruption. Boston College’s offensive line, which has been one of the most improved units this season, will have its hands full.
“They’ve played together now. There’s a lot of chemistry there,” O’Brien said of his offensive line. “They know how to communicate with each other. I think they’ve played with better pad level.”
Boston College’s Momentum
The Eagles are coming off their most complete performance of the season, a 41-21 dismantling of North Carolina. Boston College’s defense was dominant, recording seven sacks and holding the Tar Heels to just 36 rushing yards. Defensive end Donovan Ezeiruaku continues to shine, leading the ACC with 13 sacks, tying him for second nationally.
Offensively, quarterback Grayson James has emerged as a steadying force, showing poise and growth in O’Brien’s system. James’ leadership, combined with the resurgence of a balanced rushing attack led by Kye Robichaux, has given the Eagles a formula for success down the stretch.
O’Brien credited James’ progress this week, noting the importance of experience.
“The more reps you get, the more improvement you’ll see,” O’Brien said. “He works very, very hard. Guys that work hard and get the experience and get the reps, they’re bound to get better.”
Honoring a Legend
Adding to the significance of the day, Boston College will honor Luke Kuechly, one of its all-time greats, for his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.
“It was brutal to coach against him. He was one of the best to ever do it,” O’Brien said of his experience facing Kuechly in the NFL. “Luke’s an awesome Boston College guy. He’s a great supporter of our program. It’ll be great to see him on Saturday.”
Prediction
Expect a physical, defensive battle with both teams trying to assert their dominance in the trenches. Boston College’s recent form, coupled with the home-field advantage and O’Brien’s methodical preparation, gives the Eagles the edge.
Final Score Prediction: Boston College 38, Pittsburgh 17
For the Eagles, Saturday is more than just another game—it’s an opportunity to redefine their trajectory and build a foundation for lasting success. All eyes will be on Alumni Stadium as Boston College looks to finish the regular season with a statement win.
How to Watch the Game
Game Time: 3:00 p.m. ET, Saturday, November 30, 2024
Location: Alumni Stadium, Chestnut Hill, MA
Broadcast: The CW
Announcers: Thom Brennaman (play-by-play), Max Browne (analyst), Treavor Scales (sideline reporter)
Radio Coverage: Boston College Sports Network on WEEI 93.7 FM
Announcers: Jon Meterparel (play-by-play), Pete Cronan (analyst), Scott Mutryn (sideline reporter)
Final Thoughts: Why This Game Matters Beyond the Numbers
Saturday’s game against Pitt isn’t just about reaching seven wins. It’s a chance for Boston College to truly turn a corner under O’Brien. A 7-5 record would represent tangible progress and set the stage for something much larger.
For recruiting and transfer portal efforts, a strong finish and the promise of progress under O’Brien could make Boston College a more attractive destination. The program’s ability to develop players, as seen in the emergence of young players stepping up in recent games, further solidifies the vision of growth and opportunity.
A victory would energize the fan base and provide momentum heading into O’Brien’s first full offseason. With a strong close to the season, the Eagles could set themselves up to take a significant step forward in 2025.
Boston College Football Fans (BCFF) will be covering the game live at Alumni Stadium.
Please follow @BCFootballFans on X/Twitter for live updates before, during, and after the game.
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