Know Your Opponent: Central Michigan
By Ben Neuwirth
First posted on bostoncollege.247sports.com
The Boston College Eagles host the Central Michigan Chippewas Saturday, September 30th at 1 for their 5th game of the year.
The Chippewas enter the game with a 2-2 record, riding a 2 game losing streak after starting out the season hot. Their last loss came to MAC-mate Miami, OH and if they want to improve on their 6-6 record from last year or make another bowl, Central Michigan needs to get their season back on track.
Every week this season, Heights247 will take a look at the Eagles’ upcoming opponent to open the week. Here’s a few thing to know about CMU before we get into a deeper look the rest of the week.
Overview:
Head Coach: John Bonamego (15-15, third year)
2016 record: 2-2
2016 bowl: Miami Beach Bowl
Returning starters: 14 (8 offensive, 6 defensive)
Offense:
The Signal Caller for the Chippeawas is Shane Morris, a graduate transfer from Michigan and former four-star recruit. CMU runs a shotgun-based spread offense, so while the southpaw does most of his damage through the air, Morris does have the ability to beat you with his legs, his 26 carries and 96 total yards are 3rd on the team.
The veteran QB has a bevy of playmakers he can throw the ball too including senior wideouts Mark Chapman, 377 yards with 3 tds on the year and Corey Davis, all-Mac 1st team WR in 2016. Fortunately for the Eagles, star TE and NFL prospect Tyler Conklin has been out all season with a broken foot.
Although all 5 offensive lineman return for the Chippewas, their rushing attack has been somewhat ineffective the last few years, in 2016 they ranked last in the MAC in rushing and this year have only averaged 3.8 yards per carry. With 4 seniors and a junior anchoring the unit, they have experience and chemistry but it remains to be seen if CMU has the talent to run the ball. Sophomore Jonathan Ward is their main back but team captain Devon Spaulding will be sprinkled in as well.
Defense:
Central Michigan has traditionally been near the top of the MAC in defense, finishing 1st and 2nd in conference in 2014 and 2015, However, last year they dropped down to 5th and this year rank 20th worst in the country.
There is still some talent here as linebacker Malik Fountain, DE Joe Ostman and defensive back Amari Coleman were on the All-Mac team last season. Ostman is a pass rushing terror, tallying up 8 sacks last season while Coleman heads up a secondary that gives up big gains but has preyed on opposing QBs, their 9 interceptions are tied for 2nd in the country.
Betting Line:
Sportsline: BC -9
O/U: 47.5