Toal watches favorite beat another

Five-star linebacker Brian Toal was glued to the TV yesterday, watching two of his favorite teams battle it out on the football field. His father and head coach, Greg Toal Sr., was also an interested viewer.

"We watched the BC-Virginia Tech game," said Toal Sr., the head coach of undefeated Wykoff (N.J.) Don Bosco Prep and father of the nation's No. 23 player. "It's weird because I played for Tech and a I really like and respect coach Beamer and his program, but my other son, Greg, plays for BC. That makes it an easy choice. I was pulling for the Eagles."

And Brian?

"He was all BC as well," said the elder Toal of the 6-foot-2, 228-pound linebacker. "He's been pulling for BC all season long -- this extends their season and likely means a bowl game for his older brother."

BC's 34-27 upset win over Virginia Tech could be a difference-maker when it comes to recruiting Toal.

"It was a big win, a great win for BC because it shows they can compete with anyone in the ACC," said Toal Sr. "Brian is still considering Virginia Tech along with Miami, Tennessee, Notre Dame, Penn State and Oregon, but I like BC for him. I think it's a great fit and I really love coach (Bill) McGovern, the linebackers coach."

However, parental influence won't decide this matter.

"Brian is his own kid and will make his own decision," said his father. "He has only one official visit set so far (Miami on Dec. 19), but I want him to take all five so he can compare. He'll decide late."

Toal has more than 30 offensive touchdowns this season and over 100 tackles for the No. 2 team in the country. Don Bosco will play Bergen Catholic for the state title.