101 Days of BC Football: Josh Keyes, #25

At this point last year, one might have expected that we’d be talking about Josh Keyes today as a redshirt freshman to whom we looked forward to seeing on the field. Redshirts were burnt at many positions, however, and Keyes was one of several true freshmen to get into games for the maroon and gold.

In 2011, Keyes got into nine games and played better than his rather plain stat line would indicate — 8 tackles and one quarterback hit. Keyes is listed today as a safety (free safety, specifically) and as the starter, apparently tied with Sean Sylvia. That’s where he belongs, based on what we know of his talents and abilities.

Keyes’ position has been somewhat of a matter of dispute. In 2012, at least to begin, Keyes is a free safety. Boston College lists him on their website as a linebacker. Furthermore, in high school up in Columbia County, New York, Keyes was an extremely productive running back. In a way this is good, because it shows Keyes is somewhat of a utility man who can play offense or defense if needed; what is interesting is that at two of three positions to which he has been linked, the Eagles lack depth at the present time. He’s probably better where he is now, because even if depth eventually starts to burn up at running back due to injuries and such, the secondary definitely needs the help Keyes can provide right now.

One can probably expect a respectable season from Keyes in 2012, regardless of what the coaches have him do. We didn’t see much of him in 2011, but what we did see shows some promise for the years to come.