Eagles coach Bill O'Brien says James has "earned the opportunity" against a ranked opponent that will be looking for redemption.

BOSTON — Boston College is making a change at quarterback, with coach Bill O’Brien saying that Grayson James will start against No. 14 SMU in place of Thomas Castellanos.

Boston College quarterback Thomas Castellanos has not rejoined the team and is not expected to travel with the Eagles to their game at No. 14 SMU on Saturday, coach Bill O'Brien said Wednesday. Castellanos' disassociation from the team comes after O'Brien announced Monday that Grayson James will start at quarterback for the Eagles this week.

Boston College will start Grayson James over Thomas Castellanos at quarterback against SMU this weekend, coach Bill O'Brien announced Tuesday.

Approximately a day and a half ago, our very own Curtis Flannery asked the question, “Is It Time to Bench Thomas Castellanos?” that has weighed on every Boston College Football fan’s mind over the past couple of weeks.

Boston College quarterback Thomas Castellanos appears set to hit the transfer portal, and could draw a lot of attention.

Castellanos exited in the third quarter and Grayson James entered in place of him. He went 5-of-6 for 51 yards, and a touchdown. James shared his thoughts about preparing and entering the game.