Florida State and Boston College both started Atlantic Coast Conference play with extended losing streaks.
They’ve gone in opposite directions since then, entering their Tuesday matchup in Tallahassee, Fla.
The Seminoles (12-13, 5-7 ACC) have won five of their last seven since starting conference play with five straight losses. They’re coming off a resounding 92-69 win at Virginia Tech on Saturday.
The Eagles (9-16, 2-10) briefly found something when they won two straight games after an 0-4 ACC start, but have lost their last six games.
It would be easy to credit the offense for Florida State’s win over the Hokies last time out. The Seminoles shot 78.3% and nearly doubled up Virginia Tech in the second half, 53-27.
Martin Somerville scored 18 of his season-high-tying 23 after halftime, making all seven of his second-half field goal attempts, including three 3-pointers.
But Florida State coach Luke Loucks lofted the praise on his team’s defense.
“The stats would say our guys had great offensive games,” Loucks said. “I would argue that their defense was better than their offense, especially in the second half.
“Even though the seco
