Grading The Eagles: The NC State Game
Here are our grades after today's 45-24 win over the Wolfpack
Quarterback: B+
Dennis Grosel didn't have to do a whole lot for the Eagles today as Steve Addazio leaned heavily on the run. But Grosel managed the offense effectively in his first start as a collegiate quarterback, and didn't make any mistakes which is all you can ask of him in a game like this.
"Dennis has got really good toughness. He had total poise and composure out there and was truly in charge of that offensive unit."- Steve Addazio after the game
Running Backs: A+
What negatives can you find about David Bailey and AJ Dillon? They combined for over 400 yards against a strong defensive front, and as a unit averaged 7.2 yards per carry. This was against a defense that was allowing 66 yards per game. An absolute dominant performance by two elite running backs.
Wide Receivers: A-
While the receiving yards may not jump out here, you have to look at the outside runs that BC was able to do and that was partially due to the run blocks by the wide outs. Zay Flowers had a few runs but for no yardage, and Kobay White was a non factor in the passing game. But look at some of those long runs by David Bailey, the wide outs did a great job with sealing those blocks.
Tight End: A
Hunter Long had the long catch of the game, a huge 50 yard catch that unfortunately was not capitalized on. Again just like the wide receivers, they did a fantastic job in run blocks.
Offensive Line: A++++++++
An absolute dominant performance by what could be considered Steve Addazio's best offensive line ever. NC State had 26 sacks before this game, and one of the best rushing defense, but BC's offensive line completely neutralized them. A brilliant game by a group of dudes.
Defensive: A
NC State scored two garbage touchdowns at the end of the game, but the Eagles looked ready for everything the Wolfpack threw at them. Bailey Hockman was completely ineffective, Zonovan Knight couldn't run the ball at all, averaging 2.7 yards per carry. The Eagles had one takeaway, but it was a big one a pick six by cornerback Jason Maitre.
"We definitely believe, coming off of two losses, this is a game where we have a little extra chip on our shoulder. We're a little bit pissed off. Getting goal line stops is a huge momentum changer for any team. So it was a great way to start the game." said linebacker Max Richardson
"Coach Sheridan put together a great scheme this week. When it came down to the goal line, there were guys in position to make plays. That helped our team today."
Agree? Disagree? Leave your grades in the comment section below!