FSU vs. Boston College: Halftime observations

After thirty minutes of play, Boston College is up 7-6 over Florida State.

This game has gone according to plan throughout the first half, with both defenses dominating so far.

FSU’s defense has come to play, limiting Boston College’s offense to 3.8 yards per play through the first half. Eagles quarterback Anthony Brown, who was transported to the hospital during Boston College’s last game against Clemson, has looked rough, throwing a pair of interceptions and and racking up just 83 passing yards.

As expected, Boston College’s offense has run through AJ Dillon. The star sophomore running back has 65 yards and a touchdown through the first half, running hard against a stout Florida State defensive front.

Right before halftime, Brown connected with his tight ends on a drive that ended with a Dillon touchdown run. It was the first time so far this game that Florida State’s defense has been carved up through the air.

Florida State’s defense has been the star of the game. Dontavious Jackson, Marvin Wilson and Brian Burns have done a great job of limiting Dillon on the ground and forcing Brown into quick passes. Wilson was helped off the field late in the second quarter, so hopefully he is able to return to the game.

On the flip side, FSU’s offense keeps shooting itself in the foot despite averaging a healthy 5.0 yards per play. The ’Noles have strung together a couple of good drives, but a pair of Deondre Francois interceptions and four offensive penalties have set them back. Right before halftime, D.J. Matthews ran a reverse that was supposed to turn into a double-pass, but took a sack on the play that turned into a 9-yard loss.

Francois’ first interception was unfortunate, as receiver Ontaria Wilson was running deep with a step on a defender. Had the throw been a little more on target, Florida State would have likely scored.

After his first 45-yard attempt was blocked, Ricky Aguayo hit a 35-yard field goal to give the ’Noles a 3-0 lead in the second quarter. Aguayo would then hit another field goal right before halftime to cut into Boston College’s lead.

The Eagles have a slight edge in average starting field position (36, as compared to FSU’s 29).