The Boston College Eagles out-rebounded the Miami Hurricanes 46-21 en route to a 61-60 victory in the ACC opener. Miami entered the game with a perfect 8-0 record but was completely overwhelmed by BC on the glass.
The offensive rebounding by Boston College proved to be the difference. Boston College grabbed 23 offensive boards compared to Miami’s four. “Our wings are as good rebounders as there are in this league,” said Skinner. Raji and Jackson each had nine rebounds to go along with 17 and 18 points respectively.
After the game Skinner discussed his opinion of the charging call made against Jackson late in the game. Skinner noted the new “invisible cylinder” rule put in place this season, which is similar to what the NBA already has in place regarding positioning under the hoop for a defender. He thought that the rule, as interpreted by the book, should have called for a blocking foul there because of the defender’s positioning under the rim. Despite the fact that the dunk was nullified Jackson still said that this move was “probably number one on my memory list.” Skinner was pleased that Jackson decided to take in the final minutes. “Late in the game he has always been aggressive and we need that.”
Coach Skinner was hush on Sanders’ potential return but he did note that the past three wins without him in the lineup “shows we are capable and the potential of the team.” Corey Raji said that the team has received “a boost of confidence” by winning without their best player on the floor.
Next up for the Eagle’s is Harvard at home on Wednesday at 7pm. Boston College will be looking to avenge last year’s astonishing upset.
