The games are getting even bigger!
On Saturday afternoon, Bill O’Brien is already getting his biggest test yet as head coach of Boston College football. The newly-ranked #24 Eagles are headed down to SEC country to take on #6 Mizzou, who are expected to be a big contender for the College Football Playoff this season. Can BoB get BC their second upset in three weeks? Or will they lose their first game in this new era?
Who: #24 Boston College Eagles (2-0) @ #6 Missouri Tigers (2-0)
Where: Columbia, MO
When: Saturday September 14th, 2024
Kickoff Time: 12:45pm ET
How to Watch: This game will be broadcasted live on the SEC Network and streamed online here
Our staff has spent this week compiling some great content to preview this match-up. Take a look:
Boston College Football Opponent Q&A: Missouri
Previewing the Missouri Defense
Previewing the Missouri Offense
Boston College Football vs. Missouri: Betting Preview & Prediction
New Poll: Boston College Football Ranked 24th in the Country
What to Watch For
- Turnovers & time of possession. The way that Boston College wins this game is by dominating in the trenches and controlling the clock. Castellanos & co. should be able to put up some points on this Missouri defense, but they have to be sure to limit the amount of opportunities they give back to the Missouri offense. Too many punts or turnovers will inevitably come back to bite them when the Tigers try to blow off the top of the Boston College secondary.
- Get to the quarterback. Donovan Ezeiruaku and his teammates on the BC defensive line are already looking much improved compared to last season. But they’ll really need to get in the face of Mizzou QB Brady Cook to throw him off of his rhythm and to disrupt this lethal passing attack. The Tigers’ receivers are way too talented, so they will surely find space to get open if the quarterback has enough time to find them.
Tailgate Treat of the Week
Since we’re playing the Tigers, I’d like to recommend eating a tiger itself, and the only way to do that is through animal crackers! Should be a nice afternoon snack for your Saturday on the couch, as you can eat a tiger, an elephant, or even a dog.
Prediction: Missouri 34 Boston College 24
Unfortunately I have to go with my brain on this one, not my heart. I think BC will be more competitive than people are expecting them to be, and will cover the +16.5 betting line. But the Mizzou offense is way too powerful for the BC secondary to contain. I expect a lot of busted coverages or just dynamic receptions deep in thee Boston College secondary, too many to contend with for a top-6 upset. Here’s to hoping I’m wrong.