Sometimes games end as Michigan-Michigan State did Saturday, with something happening that no one could have foreseen. And other games go pretty much as expected. The BC-Clemson game last night was the latter.

The Tigers, ranked #5 nationally, thumped the Eagles 34-17, with BC’s final touchdown coming with 1:29 left in the game. The Eagles still struggled on offense, gaining 246 yards, including 159 rushing. Quarterback Jeff Smith, selected to be the single BC quarterback, was 7 of 22 passing, for 87 yards and one touchdown. That touchdown, following a BC interception, improbably gave the Eagles the lead 7-0 in the middle of the first quarter.

Clemson was a much bigger challenge for BC’s defense than it had faced in performing well all season to that point, indeed being ranked the nation’s #1 defense statistically. The Tigers had 78 plays, 17 more than BC, and gained 532 yards, 420 through the air. It was a pleasant Homecoming game for Clemson fans.

Highlights

BC is now 3-4 overall and 0-4 in ACC play. The Eagles have five games remaining and would have to win four of them to become bowl eligible. (Only one of BC’s two wins over FCS schools, Maine and Howard, can count for bowl status.)

Next up, Louisville. Back to morning game watch!