Navy’s annual postseason tour stops in Charlotte to meet Boston College, one of the toughest bowl teams in the country. The Midshipmen have won two consecutive bowl games, picking up victories in San Diego and San Francisco the last two seasons. But the Eagles, who’ve won six straight bowl games, are looking to build on the longest active streak in the nation.
Here’s “The Who” to watch for:
» Pinball Wizard: Navy sophomore Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada, thrust into the starting lineup following a season-ending knee injury to Brian Hampton, is the fourth different quarterback in four seasons to lead the Midshipmen’s option offense into a bowl game. He’s the team’s second leading rusher (480 yards) but at times struggled against Notre Dame and Army.
Junior slot back Reggie Campbell (655 yards, 7.6 per carry) exploded for a record five touchdowns in last year’s bowl win over Colorado State. The 5-foot-6 speedster had more than 10 carries only twice this season, but he’s always a surprise to those who haven’t played him before.
» Youbetter you bet: The Eagles counter Navy’s top-ranked rushing attack (327.4 yards per game) with the nation’s No. 13 rush defense (90.0 ypg). Boston College has forced multiple turnovers in nine of their 12 games. Linebacker Jolonn Dunbar (team-leading 78 tackles) returned two fumbles for touchdowns against Maryland, while linebacker Brian Toal (49 tackles) is the heart of the Eagles defense.
» Won’t get fooled again: Former Boston College coach Tom O’Brien’s sudden departure for Atlantic Coast Conference rival North Carolina State was huge, but emotional strife doesn’t cancel the talent he leaves behind.
Look no further than quarterback, where junior Matt Ryan led the ACC in passing with over 245 yards per game. He has 4,564 passing yards in his career, the fifth-highest total in school history. Navy allowed an average of 263 yards in the air in its three losses.
Meineke Car Care Bowl
Navy (9-3) vs. Boston College (9-3)
» Where: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte
» When: Saturday, 1 p.m.
» TV: ESPN
» Why it’s a great matchup: The Midshipmen face a legitimate ACC foe — trouncing Duke yearly doesn’t count — and a win proves they’re more than a just a good service academy. The Eagles, without departed coach Tom O’Brien, have their own motivation.
» Why it’s not: All of Navy’s wins have come against teams they’re supposed to beat. They were pummeled by Notre Dame and Rutgers, which were bigger and had superior athletes. Boston College is that kind of team. Not to mention, Navy fans preferred another shot at Maryland.
