ESPN College Football

Posted by ESPN.com's Heather Dinich

Redshirt freshman quarterback Justin Tuggle and sophomore running back Josh Haden -- the team's second-leading rusher -- have decided to transfer and have left the football program, the school announced today.

“Both young men expressed a desire to pursue their educations and football careers elsewhere,” coach Frank Spaziani said in a prepared statement. “Each has contributed to our football program, and we wish them well.”

Tuggle started the first three games for the Eagles this season. He completed 13-of-37 passes for 229 yards and four touchdowns. Behind starter Dave Shinskie, Tuggle has the most experience, though Michael Marscovetra has seen increased playing time lately. Haden has 58 carries for 213 yards and one touchdown this season.

This has to be frustrating for Spaziani and for Eagles' fans. Both of these players provided depth and experience at their positions that will be noticeably missed. BC has worked a football miracle to this point in the season, overcoming numerous obstacles since last season ended. That now makes two quarterbacks who have transferred since last year, including former starter Dominique Davis.

It's been a hell of a first year for Spaziani, and yet with a little help from Clemson, the Eagles could still win the Atlantic Division. In addition to winning, the health of Shinskie and Montel Harris now becomes even more important if BC is going to stay in the race. They've shocked many outside the program just by getting this far -- one win away from bowl eligibility. There's no reason the Eagles shouldn't be able to pull together and overcome yet another setback. After all, they've had plenty of practice at it.