Chestnut Hill – In a dramatic back and forth battle the Boston College Eagles rallied late to defeat the Michigan State Spartans . It was a 42-yard pass to Lewis Bond that gave Boston College a 23-19 lead with just minutes left in the game. It was the 6th and final lead change of the game .
“It was my first game-winner, ever,” Bond said. “That’s why I kind of took a lap of glory before going in.”
Michigan State had a final shot at the endzone that was picked off to end the game. QB Aidan Chiles(MSU) had 241 yards on the day but had 3 interceptions. This tightly-contested matchup came down to the area MSU’s struggled in the most through four games: turnovers. While the Spartans’ 18-year-old quarterback looked comfortable running the ball and avoiding defenders he had some questionable decision-making, particularly on his last throw .
Michigan States defense held up particular well to QB Thomas Castellanos (BC) who has been giving defense fits this season. He completed 10 of 16 passes for 140 yards and rushed 15 times but for just 15 yards, while Treshaun Ward led the Eagles with 98 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries.
The BC uniforms were decorated with iconic bandanna paisley, and every player’s jersey said “FOR WELLES” in place of a last name. Crowther’s family received a standing ovation when it was honored between the first and second quarter.
The Red Bandanna Game tradition began in 2014, when BC beat No. 9 Southern California.
“It’s a special night. The crowd, the students and a great tribute to Welles Crowther and his family,” BC coach Bill O’Brien said. “It’s one of those games, though, you’ve got to win. You’ve got to win to make it a real special night. So I was happy our guys were able to pull it out.”
The BC students stormed the field in celebration and milled around in the drenching rain as the band played the school’s fight song, “For Boston.”
The Spartans move to 3-1 on the season and will play Ohio State .
Boston College Eagles also 3-1 will host Western Kentucky next Saturday .
