Boston College at Massachusetts – Preview and Prediction
BOSTON COLLEGE 16.5 UMASS (39.5)
Implied Projected Score: Boston College 28 UMass 11.5
MEGALOCKS LINE – BC 14
The Game
The Eagles return from Ireland after losing a heartbreaker to conference rival Georgia Tech by a score of 17-14. This should be the tune-up they need before taking on the Hokies next week. UMass played a gutsy game at the Swamp in week one and were only down 10-7 to the Gators after three quarters. We did NOT see that coming. Good job, Minutemen !
The Match-Up
Boston College offense vs UMass defense
It was amazing theatre. Boston College was actually executing the “forward pass” with Patrick Towles at the controls. The Eagles had 176 yards rushing and 176 yards passing which is obviously nice balance. They should be able to move the ball consistently on the UMass defense and will probably have 370+ yards of offense. We cannot be sure how many points that will give them, but rest assured, they will have their opportunities. The cover will likely come down to red zone efficiency.
UMass held the Gators to under 400 yards at the Swamp, and while we know that Florida is still trying to find their way on offense, that was a fine performance. We expected a lot more carnage and that means we may have been wrong about their defense. We need to take a step back and reassess.
UMass offense vs Boston College defense
Good news. The Minutemen have a really good RB in Marquis Young. The not-so-good news ? It is going to be a challenge running on this defense. BC led the FBS in total defense allowing only 254 yards per game. Whoa. Yes, they have a new DC but we expect another great season out of their defense.
Ross Comis did well at QB all things considered in week 1. He threw for 141 yards and did not throw an interception. He also had a little strut in his step running in for a TD. UMass should be able to move the chains at times but it will not be easy.
Tasty Tidbits
UMass played BC at home in 2014 and lost 30-7…..As bad as the Minutemen have been the last two seasons they are 13-12 ATS including last week’s ATS victory vs the Gators…..SANDWICH GAME GUY will note that BC is in a tough spot coming off a tough loss in Ireland and potentially looking ahead to the big game vs Virginia Tech next week.
Summary
The line seems a touch high given how low the total is for this game. Cannot support playing UMass against this defense, and on the flipside, it is hard to lay 17 or so knowing full well there may not even be 17 points scored in the entire game.
Conclusion
No official play.
Lean: Lean to under any number 39 or better.