Image Source: ESPN
College games today delivered an emotional and memorable night in Boston, where Boston College held off Rutgers 28-21 on Friday, Sept. 11, 2026. The annual Red Bandanna Game honored Welles Crowther, a former Boston College lacrosse player who died while rescuing people during the Sept. 11 attacks.
The game carried special significance because it marked the 25th anniversary of 9/11. Boston College welcomed Rutgers to Alumni Stadium for an evening that combined college football, remembrance and a powerful message about courage. The Eagles ultimately provided their fans with a victory worthy of the occasion.
College Games Today Highlight Crowther’s Legacy
Welles Crowther became known as the “man in the red bandanna” after witnesses recalled that he used the garment to cover his face while helping people escape the South Tower of the World Trade Center. Crowther repeatedly ran up and down the tower’s stairs before the building collapsed.
Boston College has held the Red Bandanna Game since 2014. The tradition celebrates Crowther’s selflessness while recognizing the broader impact of the tragedy on the school community. Twenty-two Boston College alumni died in the attacks, and family members of some victims were honored on the field during Friday’s ceremony.
Alison Crowther, Welles’ mother, spoke with ESPN before kickoff and described the love her family continues to feel from Boston College. She encouraged those watching to recognize the ability each person has to bring goodness into the world.
Powerful Uniform Tributes Take Center Stage
The visual tributes began before the opening whistle. Fans entered Alumni Stadium carrying red bandanna giveaways, while a video honoring Crowther played before kickoff. The number 19, Crowther’s lacrosse jersey number, appeared inside both 20-yard lines on Boston College’s side of the field.
The Eagles also wore their traditional Red Bandanna Game uniforms. The jerseys featured paisley details and displayed “FOR WELLES” instead of player names. The design has become one of the most recognizable uniform tributes in college football.
Rutgers honored the occasion in its own way. The Scarlet Knights wore pants marked “Never Forget” and helmets featuring Stars and Stripes designs with the number 37. That number represented the 37 Rutgers alumni who died in the 9/11 attacks.
- Boston College wore “FOR WELLES” uniforms.
- Rutgers displayed “Never Forget” on its uniform pants.
- Fans received red bandanna giveaways before kickoff.
- Families of victims and Crowther’s former teammates participated in the tribute.
Boston College Holds Off Rutgers in Thrilling Finish
On the field, Boston College quarterback Mason McKenzie delivered the decisive production. He threw a 78-yard touchdown pass and added another rushing touchdown as the Eagles built enough momentum to withstand Rutgers’ challenge.
Boston College won 28-21, giving coach Bill O’Brien a victory during one of the most meaningful nights on the Eagles’ schedule. After the game, O’Brien called the occasion “a monumental night” and emphasized that winning allowed the program to celebrate Crowther’s memory in a fitting way.
O’Brien had shown his players a video about Crowther before the matchup. Boston College linebacker Anthony Palano said he quickly learned how deeply the tradition matters to the campus after arriving at the school.
Rutgers coach Greg Schiano also recognized the importance of participating. With the school’s strong New Jersey and New York City connections, the Scarlet Knights viewed the invitation as an honor rather than simply another road game.
Why This College Football Tradition Matters
The Red Bandanna Game demonstrates how sports can preserve history while bringing communities together. Friday’s matchup was about more than the final score. It gave players, alumni, families and fans an opportunity to reflect on sacrifice and the responsibility to help others.
Crowther’s family and many of his former lacrosse teammates attended the game. His story continues to influence Boston College athletes, who learn that leadership can be measured not only by performance but also by compassion and bravery.
As per ESPN News Services, with reporting contributed by the Associated Press, Crowther was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Tuesday. That recognition added another significant chapter to a legacy already woven into Boston College’s identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the Boston College vs. Rutgers game?
Boston College defeated Rutgers 28-21 in the annual Red Bandanna Game on Friday, Sept. 11, 2026.
Who was Welles Crowther?
Welles Crowther was a former Boston College lacrosse player who died while rescuing people from the South Tower of the World Trade Center during the 9/11 attacks.
Why is Boston College’s game called the Red Bandanna Game?
Crowther was known for carrying and wearing a red bandanna while helping people escape the World Trade Center. Boston College established the annual game to honor his courage and legacy.
What did Mason McKenzie do in the game?
Mason McKenzie threw a 78-yard touchdown pass and ran for another score in Boston College’s 28-21 victory.
How did Rutgers honor the 9/11 victims?
Rutgers wore pants displaying “Never Forget” and helmets featuring the number 37, honoring the 37 Rutgers alumni who died in the attacks.
