According to many pundits, there is no such thing as springtime in Chestnut Hill. However, now that the hockey team has completed its tremendous season and returned home to bask in the sun that is peaking through Boston's notoriously cloudy skies, one thing is clear: it's time for spring football.

As permitted by NCAA rules, every spring, the football team holds 15 official practices. The purpose of spring practice is to provide answers; the sentiment this year is no different. On offense, Boston College must find solutions at a multiplicity of positions.

Offensive coordinator Steve Logan's first priority is, of course, finding a replacement at quarterback for Matt Ryan. While no one on campus has perfected Ryan's magical three-step dropback and throw, rising senior Chris Crane has jumped to the front of the race. Crane, who drew heavy praise in the past as Ryan's backup, finds himself atop the depth chart with high hopes.

In the team's first spring scrimmage last week, the quarterback completed 12-of-23 passing attempts for 132 yards while directing the first team offense. In the past, Crane has flashed a solid arm and surprising mobility. He completed 17-of-26 passes for 142 yards and a touchdown in his only collegiate start two seasons ago against Buffalo. Crane also had two rushing touchdowns in the game, aptly substituting for an injured Ryan.

Crane currently ranks ahead of freshman Dominique Davis on the depth chart. Davis, who redshirted last season, offers more mobility than Crane, but less arm strength and accuracy.

In the scrimmage, Davis completed seven of 13 passes for 72 yards. At present, he is ahead of freshman Chris Johnson and sophomore Codi Boek. Coaches are trying to rework Johnson's throwing motion, while Boek adjusts to Division I football. The transfer spent last season at American River Junior College in California.

The current expectation is that Crane will be the starter at quarterback with Davis as his backup when BC lines up on Aug. 30 against Kent State. At running back, the Eagles must replace Andre Callender, L.V. Whitworth, and A.J. Brooks.

Continued...

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