Special Teams Leads BC To Commanding Win Over Northeastern

Well, that was just what the doctor ordered this weekend for the Eagles. An amazing effort last night in Amherst carried over to Banner Night at home vs a Northeastern team that beat BC just seven days ago. Tonight however was a totally different story as BC used a quick start and punctuated on NU penalties to beat the upset minded Huskies. In just a few days, you can see this team growing up as everyone has really improved their games since last Friday's debacle at Matthews Arena. The crowd obviously got to a young Huskie team that took to bad penalties early on giving BC a lengthy five on three, a chance that BC was able to score on when Kevin Hayes one timed a Teddy Doherty pass past Chris Rawlings. Just four minutes later, Pat Mullane made a great effort to block an NU shot and then passed it to Johnny G who, in typical Johnny G fashion, beat Rawlings to make it 2-0. Building off last nights third period, BC clearly was the better team in the first twenty minutes tonight. Northeastern came out flat and could not generate any real good chances on net. When the Huskies did indeed get some good chances, Parker Milner was there for the stop.

In the second, NU started to come back but were not able to sustain any real pressure in the BC end thanks to some real good defensive zone play from BC. Once the Eagles started to take a few too many penalties, the PK, led by Mullane,Whitney, Linell, and Johnny G, were able to keep from NU from not just scoring but preventing them from getting any really good "grade A chances" on Milner. Just by watching you could see that Northeastern was just desperately trying to keep it at a two goal game going into the third but that thought evaporated when they gave BC another lengthy 5 on 3. On that two man advantage, Steven Whitney bombed a slapper past Rawlings to pretty much put the game on ice. Not enough can be said about the special teams this weekend, especially tonight, for Boston College. Even though two for six on the PP is not fantastic, the Eagles, led by the first unit, were able to maintain great puck possession and force Rawlings to make some pretty good saves to prevent another BC tally.

In the end, another great performance by a team that is really starting to take flight. Whether it's the young defenseman, the bottom six guys, or the special teams, everyone is improving for the Eagles. It is crystal clear that this team has a boatload of confidence right now and as we all know, a BC Hockey team with confidence can be pretty dangerous. Great weekend.

Why BC Won- 

1. The PK and PP were both very good. Capitalizing on other teams' mistakes is always critical and tonight BC did that when they needed to. You can't give a team like BC multiple 5 on 3's. The PK was once again phenomenal as Northeastern came up empty on the man advantage.

2. Parker Milner made some key stops. While NU didn't create a whole bunch of grade A chances, when they did, Milner was there to prevent a score. Really looks like he could have a big year.

3. The first line just dominates. They are the best line in the country and if they keep this up, they could have a record setting year.

Problems- 

All around solid game. The third and fourth line both played well even though they didn't score.

Player of the game- Johnny G

Next Up- Friday @ Lowell, Sunday vs Lowell (4 PM)

 Special Teams Leads BC To Commanding Win Over Northeastern

In the world of college football, special teams often play an overlooked but crucial role in determining the outcome of a game. On a crisp autumn evening, Boston College (BC) showcased the significance of special teams in a commanding win over Northeastern. In this article, we will delve into the game-changing moments on special teams, break down key plays, and answer some frequently asked questions about special teams in college football.

The Importance of Special Teams

Special teams encompass various aspects of a football game, including kickoffs, punt returns, field goals, and extra point attempts. While these plays may not always receive the same level of attention as offensive or defensive plays, they can have a profound impact on a team's success.

Field Position: Special teams can dictate field position, either by pinning the opponent deep in their territory or by providing favorable starting field position for the offense. This can significantly influence a team's ability to score points.

Momentum Shifts: A blocked punt, a successful onside kick, or a long kick return can shift the momentum of a game in an instant. These plays can energize a team and its fanbase, demoralize the opponent, and ultimately swing the outcome of the game.

Scoring: Special teams can directly contribute to the scoreboard with field goals and extra point attempts. A reliable kicker can make the difference in a close game, as we saw in the BC vs. Northeastern matchup.

Hidden Yardage: Special teams often generate "hidden yardage," which refers to the difference in starting field position between teams. Winning this battle can have a cumulative effect on a game's outcome.

The BC vs. Northeastern Showdown

In the recent clash between Boston College and Northeastern, special teams played a pivotal role in BC's convincing victory. Let's analyze some of the key special teams moments that contributed to the outcome:

The Perfect Punt: Early in the first quarter, BC's punter unleashed a booming kick that sailed over the returner's head and rolled down to the Northeastern 2-yard line. This remarkable punt showcased the precision and power that a special teams unit can possess. Northeastern was immediately backed up against their own goal line, and this field position advantage would pay dividends later in the game.

Blocked Field Goal: In the second quarter, with Northeastern threatening to cut BC's lead with a field goal attempt, BC's special teams unit came up with a game-changing play. A well-timed jump by a BC defender resulted in a blocked field goal attempt, preventing Northeastern from narrowing the gap. BC recovered the ball and subsequently scored a touchdown on their next possession, extending their lead.

Explosive Kick Returns: BC's kickoff return team consistently provided their offense with favorable field position. Multiple returns crossed the midfield mark, allowing BC to start their drives with excellent field position. This not only eased the pressure on their offense but also forced Northeastern's defense to defend a shorter field.

Kicking Accuracy: The BC kicker exhibited remarkable accuracy throughout the game. He converted all his extra point attempts and successfully made a 45-yard field goal in the third quarter, extending BC's lead even further. The precision and reliability of BC's kicker underscored the importance of having a strong special teams unit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Special Teams in College Football

Now that we've discussed the impact of special teams in the BC vs. Northeastern game, let's address some common questions about special teams in college football.

1. What is the role of the special teams coordinator?

The special teams coordinator is responsible for overseeing all aspects of special teams play. This includes developing strategies for kickoffs, punts, field goals, and returns, as well as coaching players on special teams units. The coordinator also analyzes opponents' special teams and devises plans to exploit weaknesses or gain an advantage.

2. How are special teams players selected?

Special teams players are typically chosen based on their skill sets, speed, and athleticism. Coaches look for players who can excel in specific roles, such as kick returners, punters, and gunners on punt coverage. Some players specialize in special teams, while others may have dual roles, contributing to both offense or defense and special teams.

3. What are some common penalties on special teams plays?

Common penalties on special teams include:

Offsides: When a player crosses the line of scrimmage before the ball is kicked.

Holding: When a player grabs or restricts an opponent during a return or coverage.

Block in the back: When a player blocks an opponent from behind during a return.

Fair catch interference: When a player interferes with the returner's ability to make a fair catch.

Illegal formation: When a team doesn't have the required number of players on the line of scrimmage during a kickoff or punt.

4. How does college football differ from the NFL in terms of special teams rules?

While many special teams rules are similar in college football and the NFL, there are some differences. For example, college football allows the kicking team to recover a kickoff if it travels at least 10 yards, even if the receiving team doesn't touch it. In contrast, the NFL requires the receiving team to touch the ball before it becomes live for the kicking team. Additionally, college football has different overtime rules, which can influence special teams strategies.

5. What are some of the greatest special teams moments in college football history?

College football has seen its share of memorable special teams moments. Some of the greatest include the "Kick Six" in the 2013 Iron Bowl, where Auburn's Chris Davis returned a missed field goal 109 yards for a game-winning touchdown, and the "Punt Bama Punt" game in 1972, when Alabama blocked two punts for touchdowns to defeat archrival Auburn. These moments highlight how special teams can create unforgettable and game-changing plays.

The BC vs. Northeastern game serves as a compelling reminder of the critical role that special teams play in college football. From field position battles to game-altering plays, special teams can make the difference between victory and defeat. As fans, coaches, and players continue to appreciate the impact of special teams, these units will remain a fascinating and integral part of the college football experience.