In a stunning start to the 2024 college football season, Boston College delivered a massive upset, defeating No. 10 Florida State 28-13 on Monday night. The victory marked a thrilling beginning to the Bill O’Brien era at Boston College, as the Eagles not only secured their first win of the season but also sent shockwaves through the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and the national rankings.
A key factor in Boston College’s victory was the standout performance of Treshaun Ward. The Tampa native and former Florida State player put on a show against his old team, totaling 138 yards of offense. Ward, who played for the Seminoles from 2019 to 2022, showcased his versatility with 77 yards on the ground and 61 yards through the air. His efforts included a 13-yard touchdown reception, a pivotal moment that contributed to the Eagles’ dominant offensive display.
The Eagles’ offense, led by quarterback Thomas Castellanos, relied heavily on the ground game, racking up 263 rushing yards against a Florida State defense that struggled to contain the Boston College attack. The Eagles executed long, methodical drives, including touchdown marches of 71, 68, and 60 yards. Castellanos, who came close to upsetting Florida State last season, played a more controlled game on Monday, completing 10 of 16 passes for 106 yards and two touchdowns, while also adding 73 yards rushing and a 4-yard touchdown run.
On the defensive side, Boston College made life difficult for Florida State quarterback DJ Uiagalelei. BC defensive back Max Tucker played a critical role in the upset, intercepting Uiagalelei and returning the ball 58 yards to set up another Eagles touchdown near the goal line. Tucker’s timely play was a turning point in the game, further demoralizing the Seminoles and energizing the Eagles.
Florida State entered the season as a favorite to contend for a spot in the 12-team College Football Playoff, but the Seminoles were overmatched on both sides of the ball in this contest. Uiagalelei completed 21 of 42 passes for 272 yards, including a 29-yard touchdown pass to Kentron Poitier in the third quarter, which briefly cut Boston College’s lead to 21-13. However, the Seminoles’ offense faltered, scoring on just one of six second-half drives.
The Seminoles’ ground game, once considered a strength, was nearly nonexistent, managing only 21 yards on 16 carries. Florida State’s inability to establish the run or sustain drives was a significant factor in their downfall.
After Florida State’s lone touchdown of the second half, Boston College responded immediately, putting together a 60-yard drive in 12 plays. Kye Robichaux capped off the drive with a 2-yard touchdown run, extending the Eagles’ lead to 28-13 with just over a minute left in the third quarter. The Seminoles were unable to mount a comeback, as Boston College’s defense held firm.
The loss is likely to have significant repercussions for Florida State, as they are almost certain to drop out of the top 25 rankings following their 0-2 start. The Seminoles, who had won five straight in the series against Boston College, will need to regroup during their upcoming bye week before hosting Memphis on September 14.
For Boston College, the victory is a statement win that sets a positive tone for the rest of the season. The Eagles will look to build on this momentum as they prepare to host Duquesne on Saturday.
The Bill O’Brien era at Boston College has begun with a bang, and the Eagles have served notice that they could be a force to be reckoned with in the ACC this season.
