It’s typically rare to see a conference matchup as a team’s season opener, but for Boston College and Notre Dame, they will quickly get a feel for the ACC coming off an average regular season slate. In 2017, the Eagles finished 3-4 in the ACC, while the Irish had a slight edge with a 4-3 record.
However, the tides shifted in the postseason, with the Eagles soaring into the final four for the first time in program history, meaning this season-opener may not predict where they will rank come May.
NO. 9 BOSTON COLLEGE AT NO. 14 NOTRE DAME
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 10, 12 p.m.
WATCH: ACC Network Extra/WatchESPN
The last time these two teams met was in the ACC quarterfinals, a 17-14 win for Boston College, just five days after Notre Dame fell to the Eagles 16-10 in their regular season finale.
With two losses in five days, the Irish will avoid back-to-back ACC tilts when the postseason looms. They finish the regular season against San Diego State, while the Eagles have in-conference rival Syracuse as their last match before the ACC tournament is set.
Boston College is “hungrier” entering 2018, said coach Acacia Walker, coming off a historical season with just a three-goal loss to Maryland in the NCAA championship. Even without ice hockey star Kenzie Kent to begin the season, the Eagles are poised for another hot streak thanks to the returning offensive firepower, including Sam Apuzzo, a dual threat as a goal scorer and draw specialist. The biggest concern, however, could be on defense with goalie Zoe Ochoa graduating.
Meanwhile, changes are in store for Notre Dame. It’s the first time in 14 years the Irish haven’t returned an All-American, so many new players will be looking to make a name for themselves, including the nation’s top recruit and former U.S. silver medalist Andie Aldave. A win for the Irish would make a statement.