For Boston College coach Jeff Jagodzinski, the goal of spring ball, especially the spring game, was simple.

"Stay healthy," said Jagodzinski, who begins his second season at BC.

The day now-former quarterback Matt Ryan became the highest BC draft pick ever (No. 3) and offensive tackle Gosder Cherilus followed at No. 17 (cornerback DeJuan Tribble went the second day), the Eagles held an abbreviated scrimmage at Alumni Stadium. Jagodzinski left the field "very pleased" with what had transpired in spring ball.

"I was happy with the way spring ended," Jagodzinski said. "We didn't have any major injuries."

But they did, just the same, lose one player -- defensive end Brady Smith was booted from the team after being arrested on a sexual-assault charge. However, Jagodzinski learned he might be getting running back/kick returner Jeff Smith back after Smith's career had apparently ended last year because of concussion problems.

The Eagles face the 2008 season after the loss of Ryan, with fifth-year senior-to-be Chris Crane set to take over. He will make his second college start when the Eagles face Kent State at Browns Stadium Aug. 30. The return of Jeff Smith, who was still awaiting final medical approval, would give the Eagles their only experienced tailback, and most of Smith's experience has been as a return man.

While all of the pieces are put in place, the offense will be a work in progress. But the defense, particularly the front seven, should be as good as any anywhere and will be the foundation for this team this season.

The kicking game was also a huge question mark and one of the things Jagodzinski and his staff have to deal with when summer camp starts.

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