Boston College vs. Florida State: Key Matchup
Cam Akers vs. Boston College Defensive Line
Saturday’s matchup on The Heights will see two of the ACC’s best running backs go head to head. While BC boasts the program’s all time leading rusher, Florida State has their own star at the position. FSU’s offense revolves around junior tailback Cam Akers. While the Seminoles have been plagued by inconsistent quarterback play at times this season, Akers has been a dependable source of production. A former five star recruit, Akers has lived up to the hype during his time in Tallahassee, and is in the middle of his best season yet. Akers has already rushed for 983 yards and 12 touchdowns, putting himself firmly in the conversation for ACC Offensive Player of the Year. Akers is a dynamic athlete with incredible burst. Combine that with his willingness to lower his shoulder and his improved pass catching ability, and you have a very formidable player. Last season, BC experienced his talent first hand. In the matchup between the Eagles and Seminoles last November, Akers rushed for over 100 yards, averaging nearly eight yards per carry.
On the other side of the ball stands the Boston College defensive line. Currently, the Eagles rank 91st in the nation in rushing defense. With an inexperienced defensive line, BC has allowed opposing running backs to have massive games multiple times, most notably in loses to Kansas and Louisville. However, the Eagles have shown some signs of improvement stopping the run in recent weeks. In last week’s domination of Syracuse, BC played one of their best defensive games of the season. Much of the positive uptick in play can be attributed to the emergence of TJ Rayam. The junior defensive tackle has established himself as an elite run stuffer in the middle of the defense. Yet, in order for BC to have success limiting Akers and the FSU offense, it will have to be a complete team effort. Specifically, fellow lineman Tanner Karafa, Richard Yeargin, and Brandon Barlow all must share in the run stuffing duties.
If the Eagles hope to reign supreme on Saturday, they must win the battle of the trenches. We know how good AJ Dillon and BC’s offensive line are, but the defensive line must stand strong.