Eagles Aim to Honor Welles Crowther with a Victory Under the Lights at Alumni Stadium
Chestnut Hill, MA — The Boston College Eagles are preparing for a significant showdown as they host the undefeated Michigan State Spartans in the 11th Annual Red Bandanna Game this Saturday night at Alumni Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET, and the game will be broadcast nationally on ACC Network.
This game is more than just a contest on the gridiron; it's a tribute to the heroic legacy of Welles Crowther, a Boston College alumnus who sacrificed his life saving others during the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Known as "The Man in the Red Bandanna," Crowther's memory will be honored as the Eagles don special uniforms, adding emotional resonance to this high-stakes matchup.
The Stakes Are High
Boston College (2-1) is eager to rebound after a narrow 27-21 loss to No. 6 Missouri last week. Facing the undefeated Michigan State Spartans (3-0) provides the Eagles with an opportunity to get back on track and make a statement against a formidable opponent.
Head coach Bill O'Brien emphasized the importance of execution and focus during Wednesday's press conference.
"I talked to them a lot about that, like that there are no moral victories. You either win or you lose," O'Brien stated. "I think the big thing for us is that many, many times in these games, if we're playing well, then it's going to come down to eight to ten plays, probably in all three phases."
A Historic Rivalry Renewed
The Eagles and Spartans have a history dating back to 1935, with Boston College holding a 4-1-1 advantage in the series. Their last meeting was in the 2007 Champs Sports Bowl, where quarterback Matt Ryan led the Eagles to a 24-21 victory over Brian Hoyer's Spartans. This Saturday's game marks the first time since 2014 that the Red Bandanna Game will feature a non-conference opponent.
Boston College is 40-48-2 all-time against teams currently in the Big Ten and 9-18 against teams that were in the Big Ten at the time of competition. A win would not only honor Crowther's legacy but also enhance the Eagles' record against Big Ten teams.
Players to Watch
Thomas Castellanos – Quarterback
Sophomore quarterback Thomas Castellanos has been a standout performer this season, ranking fourth nationally with nine passing touchdowns. Against Missouri, he completed 16 of 28 passes for 249 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities.
"We've just got to continue to get ready for different opponents and what they're going to try to do," O'Brien said regarding Castellanos' preparation. "Quite obviously, he's definitely a dual threat. He can throw the ball, really, in my opinion, as well as he can run the ball, and we have to be balanced."
Donovan Ezeiruaku – Defensive End
Junior defensive end Donovan Ezeiruaku leads the Eagles with three sacks this season, tied for fourth in the ACC and 12th nationally. His ability to penetrate the backfield will be crucial against Michigan State's traditional, power-run offense.
Michigan State's Challenge
The Spartans come into the game with a perfect 3-0 record, boasting a defense that leads the Big Ten in tackles for loss. Their aggressive front has been a significant factor in their early-season success.
"That's huge. I mean, I think that we have to cover them up front," O'Brien noted. "They do a really good job. They're good on defense; they do a really good job of playing technique, but also they can stunt, they can bring pressure."
Michigan State's offense is a throwback to classic football, often operating under center with an emphasis on a power running game. This presents a unique challenge for the Eagles' defense, which must prepare for a style less commonly seen in today's college football landscape.
"It's a really well-coached team, and it has a lot of things that we believe in," O'Brien said. "We have a lot of respect for them because they play the game, they coach the game very similar to the way we do."
Key Matchups
Eagles' Offensive Line vs. Spartans' Defensive Front
The battle in the trenches will be a focal point. Boston College's offensive line, anchored by center Drew Kendall and tackle Ozzy Trapilo, must effectively neutralize Michigan State's aggressive front seven to establish the run and provide protection for Castellanos.
Eagles' Defense vs. Spartans' Traditional Offense
Michigan State's offense relies heavily on a power running game and operates frequently under center. The Eagles' defense, led by coordinator Tim Lewis, will need to adapt to this less common offensive scheme.
"They run a lot of under center, not a ton of RPOs," O'Brien commented. "We have a lot of respect for them. They do a really good job of coaching what they coach, and their guys are very, very tough and very well-coached."
Avoiding Penalties and Execution
Discipline will be crucial for the Eagles, who currently rank sixth nationally in fewest penalties per game at 2.6. Maintaining this discipline against a team that excels in creating negative plays is essential.
"We've emphasized it clearly," O'Brien said about avoiding penalties. "It's part of our formula for winning is to not commit pre-snap penalties."
Meanwhile, Michigan State has struggled in this area, ranking last in penalty yards per game, averaging 120 yards. This discrepancy could play a significant role in the game's outcome, as the Eagles aim to capitalize on any mistakes made by the Spartans.
The Emotional Weight of the Red Bandanna Game
The Red Bandanna Game holds deep significance for the Boston College community. The Eagles are 4-6 all-time in these games, often elevating their performance in honor of Welles Crowther. The first Red Bandanna Game in 2014 saw the Eagles upset No. 9 USC in a thrilling 37-31 victory.
"The legacy of Welles Crowther is something that inspires us all," O'Brien said earlier this week. "We strive to embody his selflessness, courage, and spirit in how we play the game."
What to Watch For
Thomas Castellanos' Dual-Threat Ability
Castellanos' performance will be pivotal. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs can keep the Spartans' defense off balance. Finding ways to utilize his running ability, even as teams focus on containing him, will be key.
"We coach him every day on what the game plan is and how we want to attack the defense that we're playing," O'Brien stated. "That's what we're going to continue to do."
Special Teams Impact
The return of Cameron Martinez adds a dynamic element to the Eagles' special teams. While he's still getting back into form after a hamstring injury, his potential to impact the game on punt returns cannot be overlooked.
"He's just getting back into it. He's been out for a while. He's a really good player," O'Brien mentioned. "Both those guys [Martinez and Khari Johnson] will play, and we're really happy with Cam."
Final Score: Boston College 38, Michigan State 17
This matchup promises to be a physical game between two teams that emphasize fundamentals. The emotional charge of the Red Bandanna Game, coupled with home-field advantage and a potential edge in discipline, gives Boston College a sizable advantage.
Expect the Eagles to capitalize on key plays in all three phases of the game. Castellanos is likely to deliver a balanced offensive performance, while Ezeiruaku leads a resilient defensive effort. If Michigan State continues to rack up penalties, it could tip the scales in favor of Boston College.
How To Watch The Game:
Game Time: 8:00 p.m. ET, Saturday, September 21, 2024
Location: Alumni Stadium, Chestnut Hill, MA
Broadcast: ACC Network
Announcers: Wes Durham (play-by-play), Tom Luginbill (analyst), Dana Boyle (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)
All Eyes On BC
As the Eagles take the field adorned in red bandannas, they'll be playing not just for a win but to honor the memory of a hero who exemplified courage and selflessness. With lessons learned from their previous game, a focused week of practice, and a potential advantage in discipline, Boston College is poised to deliver a performance worthy of Welles Crowther's legacy.
"We're going to work very, very hard to get back after it tomorrow," O'Brien affirmed. "I think we can coach better, and the players can get better. That's what it's about—how can we get better every day?"
All eyes will be on Alumni Stadium this Saturday night, where football becomes more than a game—it becomes a tribute to heroism and the enduring human spirit.
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.
Mac Hutchinson is the publisher of BCFF. Please follow @Mac_Hutchinson on X/Twitter, he will be reporting live from the press box and the sidelines at Alumni Stadium on Saturday.
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