Boston College Opens ACC Play Against Unbeaten Virginia Tech

The 2-1 Eagles host the 3-0 Hokies on Saturday as two-touchdown underdogs to open conference play in Chestnut Hill.

Boston College begins ACC play Saturday at home against Virginia Tech, looking to hand the Hokies their first loss of the season. The Eagles improved to 2-1 with a 20-16 win over Maine, while Virginia Tech arrives at 3-0. BC enters the game as a two-touchdown underdog and hasn't beaten the Hokies since Nov. 5, 2021, in the Red Bandanna game.

Virginia Tech features the nation's fourth-best scoring offense at 50.7 points per game under first-year head coach James Franklin. Quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer, a Penn State transfer, threw for 314 yards and two touchdowns on 80% passing in a 35-26 win at Maryland last week. Running backs Marcellous Hawkins and Jeffrey Overton anchor a ground attack behind a strong offensive line.

BC head coach Bill O'Brien called the matchup a massive challenge, praising Virginia Tech's line, quarterback and backs. The Eagles defense has recorded six interceptions and eight sacks through three games and will try to keep pressuring opposing quarterbacks.

Virginia Tech's defense has allowed just 61 rushing yards per game and an 86% red zone success rate. BC, whose red zone offense has succeeded at 55%, ran for 186 yards against Maine and could lean on the run again with a potential nor'easter expected in Massachusetts this weekend. O'Brien said his team will play in whatever conditions arrive.