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Through four games, Boston College's defense has been opportunistic, securing eight turnovers that have provided the offense with short fields. That knack for creating takeaways will be tested Saturday when the Eagles (2-2) travel to face No. 21 SMU (3-1), a team known for its explosive but sometimes careless offense.
The Mustangs lead the country in passing yards per game (392.5) and rank second nationally in total offense (550.8 YPG). However, they have struggled to protect the football, a flaw that proved costly in a loss at Louisville. In two ACC contests this season, SMU has averaged 3.5 turnovers per game, including two interceptions and 1.5 lost fumbles.
Boston College hopes to capitalize on any miscues, but head coach Bill O'Brien emphasized that it starts with containing the Mustangs' high-octane attack on early downs.
"They turn the ball over, but they're also very productive," O'Brien told reporters Thursday. "It's a little bit of understanding who they are, they have a lot of speed, a lot of athleticism, they're good up front, and we have to do our best to stop them, to minimize gains on first down. When the ball is there for the taking, we have to get it."
The Eagles' defense will benefit from having returners who faced SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings and the Mustangs at Alumni Stadium last season. That experience could give BC an edge in anticipating SMU's tendencies.
"Just knowing tendencies, knowing tells of who he is, his strengths and weaknesses, he's a really good player, much respect to him," BC cornerback KP Price told reporters Thursday.
Kickoff is set for 12:00 p.m. EST Saturday at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, Texas.
Key Analysis
Boston College's ability to force turnovers will be crucial against an SMU offense that can score quickly but has been prone to giving the ball away. If the Eagles can limit the Mustangs' early-down success and pounce on any loose balls, they could pull off an upset on the road.
Extra points: O'Brien mentioned Thursday that the flu has spread through the team this week, but the Eagles should be at full strength Saturday.
Originally reported by yahoo.