You can feel the excitement on Chestnut Hill, as Boston College’s football team has had a great year thus far.
Now, that year can get better if they defeat No. 2 Clemson on Saturday.
This is the first year since 2008 that the Eagles have broken into the AP Top 25 poll.
They were ranked No. 23 earlier in the year, but were quickly removed following a loss to unranked Purdue.
Recently, they have regained their ground after an impressive win at home against Miami two weeks ago, and find themselves at their highest rank since 2007, when they were No. 2, and No. 10 in the nation throughout the year.
The challenge waiting for the Eagles is no small opponent, as Clemson comes into this game undefeated.
Boston College is talented, but they have not beaten a ranked team this year, losing in their only chance so far by just five points to No. 14 N.C. State.
One of the brightest spots for the Eagles this year has been sophomore running back A.J. Dillon, who has averaged 128 rushing yards per carry with a total of 897 yards and eight touchdowns.
Another big piece of their success has been redshirt sophomore quarterback Anthony Brown, who has thrown for 1567 yards, 16 touchdowns, and only five interceptions.
>>MORE: No. 2 Clemson looks to clinch division title vs No. 17 BC
Clemson has only played one more ranked team than Boston College, taking home a four-point win over Syracuse.
The other ranked team they played, in common with Boston College, was N.C. State, who the Tigers beat 41-7.
This is a must-win for Clemson, as their College Football Playoff spot could be at risk in a tight competition for a top-four spot.
The stage is perfectly set for these two esteemed football programs, who will play Saturday night at 8 p.m. at Alumni Stadium.
Sam Knox is an intern in the Boston 25 Sports Department. Follow Sam on Twitter: @SamKnox_4
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