By BJ Bennett
SouthernPigskin.com

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Notre Dame beats Boston College 45-31.

1. Notre Dame was ready for its encore performance. One week after beating top-ranked Clemson, the Fighting Irish stayed hot with an important 45-31 win at Boston College. Quarterback Ian Book scored four total touchdowns and continues to play well as the catalyst for Notre Dame’s recent success. After the double-overtime emotion of last week, Saturday’s contest against the Eagles could have been a classic trap game. The Fighting Irish controlled the afternoon, instead, further validating themselves as a leading national contender. This was an impressive showing against a quality foe and showed Notre Dame’s team-wide maturity.

2. Ian Book was fantastic once again. The veteran quarterback had the best game of his career in the win over Clemson and had another showcase performance against Boston College. Book completed 20-of-27 for 283 yards and three touchdowns, adding 85 yards and another score on the ground. Book’s downfield proficiency gives Notre Dame an added dynamic offensively and his mobility can also keep defenses off balance. The Fighting Irish are elite defensively and in the running game; when Book plays like this, however, Notre Dame is clearly one of college football’s best teams.

3. A statement second quarter was where the Fighting Irish pulled away. Tied after the first period, Notre Dame promptly scored three touchdowns in the second frame, including a pivotal score from Ian Book to Ben Skowronek right before halftime. The Fighting Irish took control of the contest and pulled away from Boston College in the second quarter, with Book and Skowronek connecting for two touchdowns. After the Eagles took a brief 13-10 lead, a 21-3 answer was Notre Dame’s response.

4. The Fighting Irish won at the line of scrimmage. Notre Dame outrushed Boston College 278 yards to 85, with Ian Book and running backs Chris Tyree and C’Bo Flemister finding consistent success moving the football. Up front, the Fighting Irish were physical and consistent along the offensive line, with that unit serving as the starting point for much of what Notre Dame was able to do.

5. Boston College’s “Red Bandanna” game each year will always be special, honoring the sacrifice of the late 9-11 hero Welles Crowther, a former lacrosse player for the Eagles who selflessly saved a number of people while wearing his signature red bandanna. Boston College continues to honor and recognize his powerful legacy.