Boston College opened its 2024 college football season with a 34-15 loss at Cincinnati on Saturday, a result that reflected many of the struggles the team endured during a 2-10 campaign last fall. The Eagles, now 0-1, faced challenges on both sides of the ball, including turnovers, defensive lapses in the second half, and difficulties capitalizing on scoring opportunities.

The game began competitively, with Boston College’s defense setting the tone early. Defensive tackle Christian Hudson, linebacker Anthony Palano—who led the team with 13 tackles—and safety KP Price applied consistent pressure on Cincinnati quarterback JC French IV. Despite the defensive efforts, the Bearcats struck first on a 54-yard field goal by Stephen Rusnak in the opening quarter. Cincinnati extended its lead shortly before halftime after a successful fake punt set up a 4-yard touchdown reception by JV Gibson, making it 10-0.

Boston College’s offense started cautiously, with quarterback Mason McKenzie, a transfer from Saginaw Valley State, relying heavily on his running ability. McKenzie finished the game completing 18 of 35 passes for 223 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, while rushing 20 times for 78 yards. Despite his efforts, early offensive drives were hampered by a turnover and an injury to starting center Michael Crounse, which led to a miscue on a snap recovered by McKenzie.

The Eagles found the end zone before halftime via a 4-yard touchdown run from Evan Dickens, cutting Cincinnati’s lead to 10-7. Dickens, who ranked third nationally in rushing yards per game last season at Liberty, was a key contributor again, providing a steady presence on the ground. A two-point conversion run by McKenzie narrowed the deficit further to 24-8 later in the game.

Boston College showed flashes of promise, including solid performances by receiver Javarius Green, who finished with six catches for 74 yards, and running back Bo Maccormack III, who had notable runs late in the game. However, the team was unable to convert critical opportunities, including a near touchdown at Cincinnati’s territory that ended in an incomplete pass ruling and a fourth-down failure deep in their own half.

Cincinnati increased its lead on a 44-yard field goal by Rusnak with five minutes remaining. The Bearcats sealed their victory with an interception by MJ Cannon and a one-yard rushing touchdown from French. Cincinnati’s ground game was particularly effective, averaging 5.5 yards per carry.

Looking ahead, Boston College will host Rutgers on Friday night. The Scarlet Knights come off a home loss to UMass, setting up a matchup in which both teams will seek to bounce back. “We have to have a short memory, fix the mistakes, and look to next week,” said Dickens following the defeat. Head coach Bill O’Brien acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, “The whole thing’s on me. We have to coach a lot better.”