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By B.J. Bennett
SouthernPigskin.com Senior Editor
SouthernPigskin.com Senior Editor B.J. Bennett takes a quick off season look at the Boston College Eagles. Follow us on Twitter at Twitter.com/SouthernPigskin. Become a fan of us on Facebook at the SouthernPigskin.com Facebook Page
2009 Recap - Despite meager expectations from the media, Boston College mustered another impressive season, winning eight games in the regular season in their first season under Frank Spaziani as head coach. The schedule was highlighted by a home win over Florida State, a game where ESPN College Gameday was in attendance. Though the Eagles made a run to the Emerald Bowl against Southern Cal, the '09 season was about Mark Herzlich and his winning fight against cancer. Herzlich served as motivation for BC and fans everywhere.
Biggest Strength - The Eagles very well may have the best linebackers in college football. Herzlich, the 2008 ACC Defensive Player of the Year, is expected to return. He will team with last year's freshman sensation Luke Kuechly and senior Mike McLaughlin to form a tremendous trio in the middle of the field. Kuechly led the ACC and ranked second nationally in tackles with 158. He and Herzlich (from 2008), have combined for 268 tackles and 24 tackles for loss in their last full seasons. Boston College ranked second in the ACC, allowing just 103 yards rushing per game at 2.9 yards per attempt. Their run defense could be even better in 2010.
Biggest Question - Is the quarterback situation settled? As an aged freshman, former minor league baseball player Dave Shinskie completed a league-low 51.6% of his passes while throwing 14 interceptions. He had some quality games, see Wake Forest, Florida State and NC State, but tossed just six touchdown passes compared to ten interceptions the second half of the year. Heralded newcomer Chase Rettig will push Shinskie for the starting job. With Retting being an early enrollee, changes could be made during spring practice.
Top Returnee, Offense - Montel Harris, RB
Top Returnee, Defense - Mark Herzlich, LB
Rising Star - Chris Pantale, TE
Newcomer to Watch - Chase Rettig, QB
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