Game face on, COVID-style. BC photo

When you look at some statistics from the 40-14 blowout BC loss yesterday at #23 Virginia Tech, the game seems almost close.

Total yards: 435 and 461. First downs: 24 and 23. Time of possession: 29:12 and 30:48. The Eagles actually ran 20 more plays than the Hokies,

Two stats, however, told much of the story. Fumbles: BC 3, VaTech 0. Passes intercepted: BC 2, VaTech 0.

BC’s first two drives consisted of 11 plays gaining 98 yards. The Eagles got to the VaTech 26 and 15 yard lines, but fumbled each time. The second fumble led to the Hokies’ first score, a field goal. Interceptions of two BC passes led to other touchdowns and the additional fumble resulted in another field goal.

A 12-yard touchdown pass from Phil Jurkovec to Jaelen Gill gave BC the lead in the second quarter, 7-3. That was their only lead of the game. At halftime, VaTech led 17-7, somewhat respectable and, considering BC’s second half performances and comebacks in previous games, seemingly in the Eagles’ wheelhouse.

Jurkovec’s 20-yard TD pass to Hunter Long was the opening score of the second half, brining BC to within three. VaTech, however, almost literally sprinted ahead after that, scoring three touchdowns and a field goal for the final 26-point spread (they missed a two-point conversion attempt).

BC’s run defense was gashed by the Hokies for 350 yards, an average of 8.5 yards per carry. VaTech quarterback Hendon Hooker led the charge, gaining 166 yards on 18 carries, an average of 9.1 yards per carry, and scoring three touchdowns. RB Khalil Herbert was a close second, gaining 146 yards on 18 carries, including a run of 57 yards. Hooker also gained 111 yards passing, completing his first eight throws and finishing 11 of 15, no picks.

The Eagles ran for 90 yards, continuing an anemic rushing attack for the season, and gained 345 yards passing. Jurkovec was 28 of 51 passing, for two touchdowns and with two interceptions. WR Zay Flowers, last week’s star, caught seven balls for 57 yards.

Highlights:

BC takes on Georgia Tech next week in Alumni Stadium. That is, if the Rambling Wrecks will have overcome the wreckage from yesterday’s 73-7 loss to Clemson. Game time Saturday, October 24, 1 pm PT.