2019 season: 6-7, 4-4 in the ACC (T-3rd in the Atlantic Division)
Head coach: Jeff Hafley (1st season)
New head coach Jeff Hafley arrived this year after spending last season as a secondary coach at Ohio State and previous seasons coaching defensive backs with the San Francisco 49ers. He will attempt to elevate Boston College from mediocrity. In a season full of uncertainty, the Eagles may be the most uncertain of all ACC teams.
Boston College is working out their own quarterback issues. All eyes are on the transfer from Notre Dame, quarterback Phil Jurkovec. After a lengthy delay, the NCAA granted Jurkovic a waiver to play as a redshirt sophomore this season.
With solid size at 6-foot-5 and 226 pounds, Jurkovic will provide solid performances at a position that has been inconsistent for the Eagles in the past few seasons. Last season, he rushed 22 times for 130 yards as Notre Dame’s backup quarterback.
On the other hand, Dennis Grosel is the most experienced quarterback on the roster. Despite some solid performances against Florida State and Syracuse last season, he struggled against other tougher competitors.
After running back AJ Dillon was drafted this past April, junior David Bailey is the Eagles’ prime back this season. Bailey rushed 148 times for 844 yards and seven touchdowns last season, while catching another.
Backing up Bailey will be the redshirt freshman Pat Garwo, who could potentially be a breakout player this season as he was a top 30 running back in his high school class according to 247Sports.
While many wide receivers in the team are somewhat explosive yet inconsistent, Jaelen Gill, the transfer from Ohio State, should make some immediate impact as he arrived at Boston College this year along with Hafley.
The Eagles’ stellar linebackers highlight a defense on its heels. Redshirt senior Max Richardson led the team in tackles, tackles for loss and sacks last year, and has decided to return for his final year of eligibility.
Boston College's young defensive line will have to grow a lot to contend with tough ACC opponents. The loss of a few experienced players to graduation has given them a tough responsibility. At least Luc Bequette, a graduate transfer from California, will provide a stable veteran presence.
On the other hand, the cornerbacks and safeties had a somewhat inconsistent season last year with lots of ups and downs, and are certainly in need of more work and improvement this season. Perhaps they most reflect the question marks that come with this 2020 season for the Eagles under new leadership.
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