A Milestone Matchup
Boston College will kick off its season on September 11, 2025, when it hosts Rutgers in a game that will be streamed live on ESPN2. The contest is more than an early‑season test; it coincides with the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks and serves as the centerpiece of the Red Bandana Game, a tribute to the late Welles Crowther.
The tribute adds a layer of solemnity to what is already a highly anticipated opening‑week showdown. Both programs will wear special uniforms and observe moments of remembrance, turning the field into a place of collective memory as well as competition.
At quarterback, Boston College pins its hopes on Dylan Lonergan, who returns after a season that saw him lead the Eagles’ offense. His experience is expected to bring stability to a unit that has been searching for consistency.
Rutgers, meanwhile, brings a potent offensive arsenal. Junior running back Antwan Raymond and wideout KJ Duff headline a group that finished among the nation’s most efficient units last year, ranking fifth in fewest penalty yards.
The Scarlet Knights’ defense, which struggled in the previous season and finished 127th overall, will be overseen by new defensive coordinator Travis Johansen. Johansen’s scheme aims to tighten the unit and turn the defense into a competitive force.
Historically, Boston College holds a 20‑7‑1 edge over Rutgers, but the Knights broke an 11‑game winless streak in 2022, hinting at a shifting balance. With both teams still sorting out questions at quarterback, the outcome remains open, promising a contest that could define the early narrative of the season.