SMU vs. Boston College Short Report | Dec 28, 2023
Fenway Park
Boston, MA
Dec 28, 2023
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Game Recap
The Boston College Eagles defeated the SMU Mustangs 23-14 in a weather-challenged Wasabi Fenway Bowl, securing their first bowl win since 2016. The Eagles started strong with a 45-yard field goal by Liam Connor, but SMU's LJ Johnson Jr. responded with a 1-yard rushing touchdown. Boston College regained the lead when Kye Robichaux scored on a 6-yard run, but SMU struck just before half with a 6-yard pass from Kevin Jennings to Jaylan Knighton, putting the Mustangs up 14-10 at halftime.
The second half was a defensive struggle as rain continued to affect both teams. The turning point came when BC's special teams blocked an SMU field goal attempt. With momentum on their side, Thomas Castellanos led two scoring drives in the fourth quarter, capping both with rushing touchdowns of 15 and 14 yards respectively. While SMU made several last-ditch efforts, including attempts at long passes and touch conversions, the Eagles' staunch defense held firm, with Kam Arnold earning defensive MVP honors. Boston College finished the season at 7-6, ending SMU's 10-game winning streak and showcasing a revived ground game spearheaded by Castellanos and Robichaux.
Key Plays:
Liam Connor (Boston College Eagles)
Connor kicked a career-long 45-yard field goal, putting the Eagles on the board first and setting the tone for the defensive battle to follow.
LJ Johnson Jr. (SMU Mustangs)
Johnson capped a methodical 15-play, 78-yard drive with a 1-yard rushing touchdown, establishing SMU’s first lead of the game.
Kye Robichaux (Boston College Eagles)
Robichaux's 6-yard rushing touchdown concluded a balanced 10-play, 77-yard drive, temporarily giving the Eagles a 10-7 lead.
Kevin Jennings (SMU Mustangs)
Jennings connected with Jaylan Knighton on a 6-yard touchdown pass, resulting from a quick 10-play, 55-yard drive, putting SMU ahead 14-10 at the half.
Thomas Castellanos (Boston College Eagles)
Castellanos' 15-yard scramble for a touchdown was the pivotal score on an 8-play, 72-yard drive, swinging momentum back to Boston College.
Thomas Castellanos (Boston College Eagles)
Castellanos sealed the deal with a 14-yard rushing touchdown, capping a short but efficient 3-play, 42-yard drive, securing the Eagles’ victory despite a failed PAT.
KP Price (Boston College Eagles)
Price blocked a critical 45-yard field goal attempt by SMU, keeping the score close and energizing the Eagles' defense for the fourth quarter surge.
Standout Players:
Thomas Castellanos (Boston College Eagles, QB)
Named the game's offensive MVP, Castellanos led the team with 156 rushing yards, scoring two key touchdowns in the fourth quarter to secure the win.
Kye Robichaux (Boston College Eagles, RB)
Contributed significantly with 89 rushing yards and a touchdown, providing critical support to the ground game alongside Castellanos.
Kam Arnold (Boston College Eagles, LB)
The game's defensive MVP, Arnold recorded six tackles and a pivotal sack, playing a crucial role in maintaining the Eagles' defensive stance in the second half.
Kevin Jennings (SMU Mustangs, QB)
Despite the loss, Jennings demonstrated resilience with 191 passing yards and a touchdown, contributing 51 rushing yards on the ground.
Bryan Massey (SMU Mustangs, S)
Massey collected two tackles and an interception, significantly contributing to SMU’s defensive efforts throughout the game.
References:
Highlights and Touchdowns: SMU Mustangs 14-23 Boston College Eagles in NCAA College Football | December 28, 2023 - VAVEL USA
Football vs Boston College on 12/28/2023 - Box Score - SMU Athletics
Boston College Defeats SMU in the 2023 Fenway Bowl, 23-14 - BC Interruption
SMU Athletics Football History vs Boston College
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SMU Mustangs
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Boston College Eagles
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