A disastrous 2-10 record marked the end of four years of regression for the Boston College Eagles football program under Frank Spaziani, who was a well-respected defensive coordinator that proved to be out of his element as a head coach. It was that 2-10 program located in the heart of the most passionate pro sports market in the country that Steve Addazio inherited in 2013.
Addazio has impressed everyone by stopping the bleeding with a 7-6 bowl season last year followed by a 7-5 record this year with a berth in the Pinstripe Bowl. Addazio is a native of nearby Connecticut and has proven to understand then BC culture and mission. With the program on the fast track towards success and with a long term commitment in mind, Boston College has extended Addazio’s contract through the 2020 season.
A Boom to Recruiting
Boston College has a great reputation for academics and Addazio’s success and long-term commitment will be a draw when recruiting season picks up in a couple of weeks. And recruiting figures to be a significant priority for Addazio, as his program has had a high turnover rate with players washed out under his new system and tougher standards.
BC Administration is Sold
“In just two years, Steve Addazio has done an amazing job with our football program,” said athletic director Brad Bates. “To lead a team to 14 wins and two consecutive bowl games during what was supposed to be a rebuilding process is a great accomplishment.”
BC also had to take into account that Addazio’s name was being mentioned for high profile openings at Florida, which was later filled, and at Michigan.
Addazio Focused
“There’s no distraction,” Addazio said about the coaching rumors. “To me, it’s the nature of the business. When you have success these things happen. Right now, I’ve got the greatest job in the world, I’m working it and I’m excited and not interested in any conversation outside of my team. The future is bright.”
Ground Game Powers Up
Addazio was long regarded as the best offensive line coach in the game and has developed a power running game at BC that has already set records. This year QB Tyler Murphy broke the ACC single season rushing record for a quarterback. The highlight of the season was a 37-31 win over USC. Just as impressive was a near miss loss against undefeated Florida State.