Massachusetts: There Are College Football Games This Weekend
This time of year, when you think about or discuss college football, the topics typically center around players entering the NFL draft or which returning players have transferred to other schools. However, this spring weekend, there are Massachusetts college football games taking place to be aware of.
That’s right, at major division one programs like Boston College, and division two programs like Bentley University, their respective inter-squad spring games are on Saturday, April 13.
Here is what a spring game is and why it is important. Over the course of a few April weeks, college football programs are allowed to run what is essentially a spring practice training camp. It’s a unique setup that can set the tone for the upcoming fall season.
First, the seniors who were on the team last season are considered graduates; unless they have another year of eligibility, they are no longer on the team. The same holds true for those players who are entering the draft. Even if they are underclassmen still at school, they, too, are not part of spring practice.
More times than not, high school players who have committed to the school are also not part of spring practice. So, it’s a more concise group.
The practices can be intense. College football, like many sports, is an all-year commitment. Players have rigorous workout routines they must stick to, and this work often includes working together as a group. What’s different about spring practice is that the pads are back on, and it’s full contact.
At the culmination of the spring camp, the team holds a fun inter-squad game, where a lot of pride (and sometimes jobs) are on the line.
Massachusetts College Football Spring Games To Be Aware Of
On Saturday, Boston College will hold the Jay McGillis Memorial Maroon Gold Game to wrap up its spring season. The game starts at 12 PM and will be on the ACC Network. “Admission is free and is the first opportunity for BC fans to witness a new era of Eagles football on the field,” Boston College explains.
This is the first time fans will see the team under new head coach Bill O’Brien. The former Patriots, Texans, and Penn State coach was hired this winter to take over the team.
Five miles away in Waltham, Bentley University will also hold its spring game on Saturday. After 10 hard-working spring practices, the Falcons will square off against each other starting at 10 AM at Peter Yetten stadium.
Here’s What The Spring Game Has On The Line, From A Former Player
Speaking of Peter Yetten Stadium, Peter Yetten was my coach at Bentley. I played linebacker for the Falcons and had the honor of playing for Coach Yetten, who, to this day, remains an inspiration.
I had a unique experience playing college football because I started in the spring of my freshman season. Long story short, I was not committed to attending Bentley until the last minute, so I missed the start of my first eligible season in the fall.
Starting in the spring set the table for the upcoming fall season, when I would be a sophomore. I had to prove myself every snap. All the other freshman knew each other well and had been roommates and teammates. My coaches were unsure I would be a player, given they didn’t see me in the fall.
Aside from me, all college football players have a great opportunity during spring ball. Depending on the school’s protocols, some can earn a scholarship for the upcoming year. For others, it’s their chance to claim their spot on the depth chart.
Trust me, come August 15, when the official new season starts, you want to be penciled into the “first team” squad and start camp with your hold on your position. This all happens during the spring practices. It’s by no means a few hours a day where players are just trying to check the box and get it over with.
So, if you are thinking about heading to Alumni Stadium or Peter Yetten Stadium this weekend, you are in for a real football treat. You will see top college football players giving everything they have to kick off next season the right way.
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