Three Boston College Defenders SMU Must Account For on Saturday
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SMU has put up huge offensive numbers through the first month of the season, but Boston College brings a defense to Dallas that’s capable of making Kevin Jennings pay for mistakes.
The Eagles enter Saturday’s matchup allowing 340.8 yards per game while producing 10 sacks and six interceptions through four games.
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Boston College has been particularly good at stealing possessions, with its six interceptions ranking among the best totals in college football.
That makes ball security critical for an SMU offense that wants to play fast and generate explosive plays.
Here are three Eagles the Mustangs need to locate on every snap.
E’Lla Boykin | Defensive Line
Boykin may be the biggest individual problem for SMU’s offensive line.
The 6-3, 255-pound junior has emerged as Boston College’s most dangerous pass rusher. He recorded two sacks and a career-high seven tackles against Virginia Tech last week and has consistently created pressure off the edge this season.
SMU can’t allow Boykin to wreck Jennings’ timing.
Jennings is particularly dangerous when protection breaks down because of his ability to escape the pocket, extend plays and attack the secondary after coverage begins to collapse.
That makes Boykin’s battle with SMU’s tackles one of the game’s most important matchups.
KP Price | Defensive Back
Price is the veteran traffic cop in the Boston College secondary.
The 6-2, 205-pound senior had 10 tackles against Virginia Tech and gives the Eagles an experienced defender who can play downhill against the run while helping control the middle of the field.
That matters against an SMU offense with weapons everywhere.
Jennings has already thrown for 1,453 yards this season, while Yamir Knight leads the Mustangs with 345 receiving yards. SMU’s ability to stretch Boston College horizontally and vertically will force Price to make difficult decisions throughout the afternoon.
Max Tucker | Defensive Back
Tucker could draw one of the toughest assignments of the day.
The senior cornerback has extensive starting experience and forced a fumble against Virginia Tech last week. His ability to stay disciplined when plays break down could become particularly important against Jennings.
SMU’s quarterback can extend plays with his legs, which puts additional pressure on defensive backs to maintain coverage longer than they normally would.
That’s easier said than done.
SMU has produced at least 479 yards of offense in every game this season, and Jennings has already posted two 400-yard passing performances.
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Boston College’s best chance is to pressure Jennings, create turnovers and force SMU to stay patient.
If the Mustangs protect the football and keep Boykin away from Jennings, however, Boston College’s defense could have a difficult time keeping up with one of the ACC’s most explosive offenses.
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