Head coach Jeff Hafley has given the Eagles fanbase a reason for excitement with both recruiting and emerging stars on the field.
Although Boston College went just .500 in the ACC last year, the same as the previous three, Hafley’s more modern approach sets them up for drastic improvements this upcoming season.
On my preseason All-ACC offensive team, I recognized both wide receiver Zay Flowers and center Alec Lindstrom. But this feature will zoom into the entire Eagles roster in handing out accolades.
Let’s start with the most prevalent award — offensive most valuable player.
Offensive MVP: QB Phil Jurkovec
For years leading up to last season, Boston College would almost always run the ball on first and second down. The transition from 2019 to 2020 increased their passing play percentage from 125th in the FBS to 24th.
Essentially, the Eagles went from a team that barely trusted their quarterback to one that was reluctant to even utilize the rushing attack. It may be a straightforward pick but the addition of Jurkovec has been the main force behind the complete transition of this offense.
Behind just Sam Howell and Trevor Lawrence in the ACC, Jurkovec had 24 big time throws last season while accounting for just five interceptions. He also took sacks on just 6.2% of plays, which was also third in the ACC.
Between his passing ability and athleticism, Jurkovec has all the tools for a season that puts him on the top of the radar of NFL scouts.
Defensive Player of the Year: DE Marcus Valdez
Pass rushing has been another area that the Eagles have struggled in recent history. This will be a key component to whether or not they reach their ceiling this year.
When it comes to Valdez, think “process over results.” He had only two sacks last season but leads ACC returners in total pressures.
And the reason for this statistic is not because Valdez was consistently whiffed on tackling the quarterback. He was getting unlucky, partially due to the lack of production around him.
In 2021, expect Valdez to sustain his pressure rate and increase his production on the stat sheet.
Freshman of the Year: RB Xavier Coleman
As mentioned previously, the Boston College run game has been practically irrelevant. But Coach Hafley has mentioned that he wants to run more efficiently this year and Coleman may be the guy to step up.
Early on, he may only play situationally, utilizing his strengths as a pass blocker and a goal line back. But there is certainly an opportunity for him to impress and rise up the depth chart.
Most Underrated Player: OT Tyler Vrabel
Most of the attention from the offensive line goes to Lindstrom, but Vrabel is another key reason why that group has such high expectations. As a pass blocker, Vrabel allowed just 18 pressures all season, second among ACC right tackles. He also had a run block grade in the 80th percentile of power conference football last year.
Breakout Player of the Year: WR Jaelen Gill
Starting at Ohio State and eventually transferring to Boston College, Gill has not yet produced at the level he is capable of. But now in year four of college ball, things can change in a big way.
He is a versatile piece that could play any in spot in the formation, including in the backfield. Plus, with the departure of lead target TE Hunter Long to the NFL and the aforementioned Zay Flowers drawing extra attention, there is a major opportunity for the under-the-radar receiver to have a huge season.
