Duke Rout Leaves Boston College Searching for Answers

Boston College’s bid to show it could compete with the Atlantic Coast Conference’s top teams took a sharp setback in a 47-2 loss at Duke. The Eagles fell to 4-4 overall and 2-3 in conference play, while Duke improved to 6-2 and 3-2.

Penalty problems mounted early for Boston College: it was flagged 11 times for 94 yards in the first half and finished with 15 penalties for 132 yards. The Eagles had 109 yards of offense by halftime, as Duke built a 27-2 lead.

Duke running back Nate Sheppard scored five rushing touchdowns, helping the Blue Devils dominate on the ground. Quarterback Walker Eget also threw a five-yard touchdown pass to Jeremiah Hasley. Duke’s defense recorded six sacks and 11 tackles for loss, and Boston College used backup Grayson Wilson and third-string freshman Femi Babalola at quarterback in the fourth quarter.

Boston College’s only points came when Carter Davis returned a loose ball 100 yards after a blocked extra-point attempt. Duke added two field goals by Gavin Strange in the fourth quarter to complete the scoring.

Quarterback Mason McKenzie said penalties repeatedly halted the Eagles’ progress and that the team needed to be more disciplined. Coach O’Brien said he had not done enough to prepare the players. Boston College is scheduled to host Florida State next Saturday at noon.