Ogden • What chance does Weber State have of upsetting Boston College?

The Eagles of the Atlantic Coast Conference return four of five starters on the offensive line, one that averages 313 pounds and opened big holes for sophomore Montel Harris in 2009. Last season, Harris rushed for 1,457 yards and 14 touchdowns.

In addition, 26-year-old sophomore QB David Shinskie was just named starter and has plenty to prove.

Defensively, Boston College returns a veteran secondary among seven starters, as well as All-American linebacker Mark Herzlich, who sat out last year beating bone cancer.

"They're not going to overlook us," said Weber State coach Ron McBride. "They'll be well prepared."

So, when the Wildcats line up in today's season opener at 11 a.m. MDT at Alumni Stadium in Chestnut Hill, Mass., where do they look for a chance at an Appalachian State-style upset?

It comes down to execution.

"They've got a lot of big guys," said Weber State quarterback Cameron Higgins, who has watched hours of Eagles' game tapes. "They're more physical than any other team we've faced. They don't have any crazy schemes; they just line up and play. They show their hand.

"We just need to execute."

Boston College lost five receivers from last season, including the two starters. In addition, deep threat Colin Larmond suffered a season-ending knee injury.

McBride has had plenty of experience successfully preparing underdogs.

The key, said McBride, is maintaining calm.

"Don't get so excited about it," he said. "Just go and play. [The Wildcats] know they can play against good teams."

Last season, Weber State was about to score the go-ahead touchdown at Colorado State with 43 seconds to play before a fumbled snap short-circuited the near upset.

"There's a lot of unknown," Boston College coach Frank Spaziani said. "We've never been on the field with them; there's not too much commonality. They've got a veteran quarterback, they've got big linemen, big running backs. They're well coached.

"Defensively, they'll blitz you, they're sound, they're tough. They're a good football team ."

Boston College is saying all the right things. So, what about it, Weber State?

"We have absolutely nothing to lose," WSU defensive end Gabe Bowers said. "We show up and do well, it's a loss for them. If we win, it's a major loss for them. The mind-set of this team is very good."

martyr@sltrib.com —

Weber State at Boston College

P Today, 11 a.m. at Alumni Stadium, Chestnut Hill, Mass.

Radio • 1430 AM

TV• None

Series record • First meeting