Boston College takes on #17 SMU in the 2023 Wasabi Fenway Bowl at Fenway Park on December 28th

America’s most beloved ballpark looked quite different on December 17th of 2022. Instead of a dirt diamond and a pitcher’s mound, the Fenway Park field was temporarily replaced with end zones and uprights for the inaugural Wasabi Fenway Bowl. The game saw the 7-5 Louisville Cardinals face off against the 9-3 Cincinatti Bearcats, with the Cardinals coming away with a 24-7 victory.  

This year, the Boston College Eagles and the Southern Methodist University (SMU) Mustangs come to Fenway to compete for the title of 2023 Fenway Wasabi Bowl champion. 

Coming into this year’s Wasabi Fenway Bowl, the hometown Boston College Eagles have a record of 6-6 which is currently good for 9th place in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Currently on a three-game losing streak, the Eagles look to get back on track in their home turf at Fenway Park. This Eagles squad is led by dual threat sophomore quarterback Thomas Castellanos, who has recorded 2,146 passing yards on a 57 percent completion percentage with 15 touchdown passes and 13 interceptions. Senior defensive back Elijah Jones leads his team in interceptions with 5. Coach Jeff Hafley will certainly attempt to use the location of this year’s game to his team’s advantage. 

The out of state SMU Mustangs enter this contest ranked number 17 in the nation with a 11-2 record. Sophomore quarterback Preston Stone has had a standout season so far, posting 3,197 passing yards on nearly a 60% completion rate with 28 touchdowns and only 6 interceptions. In the backfield, SMU has a three headed monster with senior Jaylan Knighton rushing for 720 yards and 7 touchdowns. Sophomore LJ Johnson Jr.  On defense, Elijah Roberts leads his team in sacks with 9.5 while Kobe Wilson leads the defense with 74 tackles. Head coach Rhett Lashlee looks to secure his team’s 12 win of the season in this year’s Bowl.  

If last year’s game taught us anything, it’s to always expect the unexpected. Bowl season brings out the best in competitive teams, and this year’s contest is sure to be an exciting one.  

Of course, the Fenway Bowl isn’t just about the game, it’s also our way of uplifting educators. The Fenway Bowl Honor Roll aims to spotlight outstanding teachers, administrators and support staff members across the New England area. 27 nominees and three Monster finalists will be recognized at this year’s bowl. Tune in to the game at 11 A.M. on December 28th on ESPN or get a ticket to see the game live and in person at Fenway Park.