Category: Mountain West Football

Brent Brennan is leaving SJSU for Arizona. What did legacy did he leave behind?

Brent Brennan is leaving SJSU for Arizona. What did legacy did he leave behind?

Brent Brennan is leaving SJSU for Arizona. What did legacy did he leave behind?

SJSU reporter Matt Weiner weighs in on Brent Brennan leaving SJSU.

Follow @Mattweiner20 & @MWCwire

The news Spartan Nation always braced for, but never wanted to face

After seven years at San Jose State, head coach Brent Brennan is heading to Arizona to takeover for newly minted Washington head coach Jedd Fisch, according ESPN’s Pete Thamel.

 

Few can fault any Spartan fan who finds this news difficult to stomach.

Brennan was arguably the most successful only head coach in program history to lead SJSU.

He was the first head coach to make three bowl games which marked the program’s first time reaching three bowl games in the span of four years.

Each of those bowl appearances, however, forced SJSU fans to face the gutting reality they face today.

In 2020, after SJSU celebrated an undefeated regular season and won the Mountain West Championship, Brennan interviewed with Arizona for the head coaching vacancy before it went to Fisch.

And after SJSU went 7-5 in 2022 and made the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl, Brennan interviewed for the vacancy at Stanford.

Then last month, Brennan was a finalist for the vacancy at Oregon State before it went to Beavers’ defensive coordinator Trent Bray.

That last one felt like a particularly close call.

For starters, Brennan was fresh off leading SJSU from the abyss of a 1-5 start to a 7-5 season that included a co-Mountain West Regular Season Title.

Furthermore, Brennan coached wide receivers at OSU from 2011-16. The ties ran so deep he named his dog after OSU’s mascot “Benny” and filled his current staff with former Beavers’ coaches like SJSU offensive coordinator Kevin McGiven, defensive coordinator Derrick Odum and defensive line coach Joe Seumalo.

So now the question is: Who will Brennan take to Tuscon?

Is it McGiven? Odum? Wide receivers coach Eric Scott? Running backs coach Alonzo “Zo” Carter?

After all, Fisch brought his entire offensive staff to Washington.

Better yet, who will take over for Brennan?

And who ever that head coach is will be the latest interwoven in the domino effect of Nick Saban retiring unexpectedly.

Let’s trace how wild this is.

On Jan. 10 Saban retired from Alabama. Then on Jan. 12 Kalen DeBoer leaves Washington to fill in for Saban. Which results in Fisch heading to Washington on Jan. 14. Now, on the lord’s day of Jan. 16, 2024, Brennan is heading to Arizona. A place he was a graduate assistant at under Dick Tomey in 1999.

Some Wildcat fans may see Brennan’s 34-48 overall record at a Group of Five, 0-3 bowl record and feel as is the resurgence is over. So much for winning as many games last year —10 — as it did from 2019-22. And so much for fleeing the formerly known PAC-12 for the BIG-12.

But those people should take a deeper look. Not just at how Brennan went 3-22 in his first two seasons. Rather, the resources he had to work with for what followed.

Brennan went to those three bowl games without an NIL presence, laughably outdated facilities until last August and a meager operating budget.

Those shortcomings are the results of the incompetency of previous administrations who treated deep-pocketed alums like ghostly afterthoughts.

The nadir came in the early to mid-2000s when SJSU academics and brass formed a coalition called ‘Spartans4Sanity’ that —insanely enough — campaigned and petitioned to axe the football team because of the money it was losing the school.

In other words, 34-48 and three bowl appearances, albeit zero wins, is pretty damn good.

U of A fans should at the very least give him a shot. SJSU fans, meanwhile, are left with mixed emotions.

What about SJSU players and recruits? On Sunday, 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy’s younger brother, Chubba, announced he was transferring from Nebraska for SJSU. Does this mean he transfers elsewhere and a mockery is made of those great storylines and press?

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Beyond Purdy, who else will transfer or decommit?

Any starters transferring doesn’t bode well for a team that won’t return its starting quarterback, running back, four offensive lineman and safeties.

Though Brennan never said it outright, SJSU was as a stepping stone to a Power Five. If it wasn’t, he would’t have interviewed after his best seasons.

That’s not an indictment of a poor character. During his time at SJSU, Brennan hired a sports psychologist and got each player the meditation app “Headspace” because he knew the stresses that weigh on the minds of student-athletes.

Rather, Brennan using SJSU as a stepping stone is the indictment of a man with ambition, success and the agency to do what he feels is best for him.

Even if it that stone crumbles into debris and irrelevancy.

Matt’s Monday Mailbag: Did SJSU do right by signing Brock Purdy’s younger brother?

Matt’s Monday Mailbag: Did SJSU do right by signing Brock Purdy’s younger brother?

Matt’s Monday Mailbag: Did SJSU do right by signing Brock Purdy’s younger brother?

SJSU reporter Matt Weiner weighs in on Chubba Purdy signing with SJSU, burgers and buzzer-beaters.

Follow @Mattweiner20 & @MWCwire

Bay Area added another Purdy

Hello and welcome to Matt’s Monday Mailbag™ your go-to destination for all pressing SJSU football and men’s basketball matters.

Enough chit-chat. Let’s get into it.

Thomas Christian: @ThomasGoatnba: “What do we think of signing Brock Purdy’s lil bro?”

Optics wise, signing Chubba Purdy was a good move. The connection to Brock will generate buzz this program desperately needs. 

Football wise, I like this move, too. Compared to any other SJSU quarterback available, Purdy has started multiple games at the Power Five level. And sure, he went 0-4 at Nebraska last season, but I’ll take that over SJSU QB Jay Butterfield who has 15 career pass attempts. 

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Furthermore, Purdy’s mobility could be a massive help to SJSU’s offensive line which will feature four new starters. 

Ryan B: @rbizzle16 “Do you think it’s fair to say that we’d have a good chance at being 4-0 in league if we had Rob V [Vaihola] in the lineup?”

Oh, without a doubt. 

Each loss featured an example where SJSU’s frontcourt was outmatched.

In the Wyoming loss, SJSU was outscored in the paint 36-20 which played a pivotal role in the squandered 17-point lead. In its next loss to Boise State, SJSU allowed power forward O’mar Stanley to net 30 points and 11 rebounds. A few days later, No. 19 San Diego State’s power forward Jaedon LeDee finished with 31 points and 10 rebounds. 

Imagine the destruction a frontcourt of Vaihola and seven-footer Adrame Diongue could inflict upon opponents?

Ricky Delgado: @RickyDe70535587 “A sign of a good team is that they can handle adversity (especially on the road) and still find ways to win. So far this season we hadn’t done that but on Saturday we did. I take it as an indication they are starting to gel and improve. We’re on the upswing and I’m excited For the rest of the season.”

Myron “MJ” Amey Jr.’s buzzer-beating three over Air Force should signify SJSU shifting course of its late-game woes. 

But I just don’t know. 

The Spartans let a 46-33 halftime lead over the Cadets wither into a 66-61 deficit. Yes, SJSU rallied back triumphantly. But with 10 seconds left and SJSU up 67-66, what if AFA’s Rytis Petraitis went 2-for-2 not 1-for-2 from the line? More importantly, what if he didn’t step out with 1.5 seconds left after he rebounded SJSU point guard Alvaro Cardenas’ airballed three? Lastly, AFA is the second-worst team in the conference. 

Not saying it can’t happen. Just important to remember the context surrounding Amey Jr.’s dagger. 

Fake Matt Mumme:@FakeCoachMumme “What’s the best burger in Santa Clara County?”

Not sure if it’s the best burger (I’m more of a chicken sandwich guy) but the best I’ve had is the Breakfast Burger at Egghead Sando. 

Paring over-easy eggs with caramelized onions as a burger topping is beyond elite. 

Ricky Delgado @RickyDe70535587 “Incredibly happy for the players, especially MJ to get that win on Saturday. I could see some of them had that “here we go again look” like the football team did early in the season. I keep going back to football season because I can’t help how similar these two teams feel. With that said, a turnaround similar to the one the football team had is improbable. However, this team will compete night in and night out with any team in the conference and I feel like they’re even going to upset a couple of the big programs.”

I think this team will be a gambler’s worst nightmare. 

Last Tuesday, SJSU nearly upset No. 19 San Diego State, 81-78. Then followed that up by needing an improbable buzzer-beating three from Amey Jr. to escape a woeful Air force. 

Don’t be surprised if SJSU struggles at home against Fresno State (No. 254 NET ranking) on Feb. 6 and then has Colorado State (No. 20 NET ranking) on the ropes in its next game. 

Which is why I believe SJSU can win eight of its next 14 games to clinch eligibility for the CBI. But at the same time I wouldn’t put any money on it. 

SJSU’s Brent Brennan linked to Arizona head coach vacancy

Could Brent Brennan leave SJSU for Arizona? A look inside.

Will head coach Jedd Fisch’s departure from Arizona to Washington result in San Jose State football head coach Brent Brennan heading to Tuscon?

That’s the question that’s on the mind of Spartan Nation.

According to Wildcat Authority ($) Brennan and Arizona officials have had “preliminary contact” about him becoming the next Wildcats head coach.

This makes a lot of sense that these two are talking. This is not the first time that Brennan and Arizona have flirted in a similar situation. It was just a few years ago, after SJSU won the 2020 Mountain West Championship when Brennan was a finalist for the Arizona job before Fisch was named the head coach.

Then it was less than two months ago when Brennan was a finalist for the Oregon State job before the Beavers went with defensive coordinator Trent Bray to replace then-head coach Jonathan Smith who left for Michigan State.

Wedged between those two instances was 2022 when Brennan interviewed for Stanford’s head coaching vacancy before it went to Troy Taylor.

Brennan’s made it clear SJSU isn’t a long-term plan. So is this when he succeeds in taking that step up to the Power Five?

After all, the seventh-year SJSU head coach has the impressive track record of being the only skipper to lead the Spartans to three bowl games. He did so with a meager operating budget and laughably outdated facilities until last summer.

Although it may not be a deciding factor, it’s worth noting he was a graduate assistant under Dick Tomey at U of A in 1999. But Brennan’s ties ran even deeper with OSU — he coached receivers there from 2011-16 — and still lost out.

The reason why Brennan lost out then, could be why he loses out now.

OSU went with Bray, who had zero head coaching experience, for the sake of continuity and ambition to prevent a mass transfer portal exodus. This time around, U of A could do the same with its offensive coordinator Brennan Carroll who has no head coaching experience.

So what will be the difference? As opposed to the OSU scenario, the Wildcats don’t have the pressure of an upcoming bowl game and may feel it’s worth risking continuity and an exodus for a coach with a proven track record.

If it’s not Carroll, perhaps U of A goes with Brennan over UNLV head coach Barry Odom (one year of head coaching experience) and Texas State head coach GJ Kinne (one year of head coaching experience). Or Air Force’s Troy Calhoun, Liberty’s Jamey Chadwell and Washington State’s Jake Dickert.

Considering what Brennan accomplished at SJSU, he could be fit to continue the Wildcats’ rebuild as they head from the formerly known Pac-12 to the Big 12. After going 10-31 from 2019-22, Arizona went 10-3 in 2023 and capped the season with a 38-24 win over Oklahoma in the Alamo Bowl.

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This article was updated at 11:49 am PST

UNLV’s Barry Odom Name Linked To Washington Job

UNLV’s Barry Odom Name Linked To Washington Job Could the Rebels need a new head coach? Follow @JeremyMauss & @MWCwire Coaching season is getting silly, again Former Fresno State head coach Kalen DeBoer just led Washington to the national title …

UNLV’s Barry Odom Name Linked To Washington Job

Could the Rebels need a new head coach?

Follow @JeremyMauss & @MWCwire

Coaching season is getting silly, again

Advertisement

Former Fresno State head coach Kalen DeBoer just led Washington to the national title game, and now he is upgrading again by reportedly taking the Alabama job. It is not officially, official, but it is a done deal.

Now all the eyes of college football turn their eyes to the Pacific Northwest for who can take over for DeBoer’s Huskies. It will take a certain type of coach to lead Washington not only to the Big Ten but attempt to maintain its status as a national title contender team.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel tossed out a list of possible candidates and a few have Mountain West ties. There is former Fresno State and current Washington offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, who is an obvious choice.

The other name that will make UNLV fan’s head steam is reading that Barry Odom’s name is on the list.

Odom led UNLV to one of the best seasons ever in Las Vegas so to see his name on this very early list is not surprising. The turnaround has to make him enticing, as does his solid success as the Missouri head coach and helping Arkansas’s defense improve over the past few years.

Going to a soon-to-be Big Ten program has to be attractive to Odom. It will be a massive pay raise and going up against better competition. Jayden Maiava leaving and ultimately ending up at USC is a blow to the Rebels next year and might be a reason for Odom to look elsewhere.

However, there is no indicator that Odom is looking for a new job but getting a massive call up to a bigger league and everything that comes with it would be hard to turn down.

This list does not mean that Odom is a candidate by any stretch but it is a name that could be connected to this job.

At this time, there is no need for UNLV fans to panic about losing Odom, but maybe keep those alerts on for Thamel tweets about this job search.

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Wyoming Cowboys vs New Mexico Lobos: Preview, Odds, How To Watch

Wyoming Cowboys vs New Mexico Lobos: Preview, Odds, How To Watch Lobos open up league play Follow @MWCwire Who goes 1-0 Date: Saturday, January 6, 2024 Time: 10:00 PM ET TV: CBS Sports Network Stream : FuboTV – Get a free trial Where: Albuquerque, …

Wyoming Cowboys vs New Mexico Lobos: Preview, Odds, How To Watch

Lobos open up league play

Follow @MWCwire

Who goes 1-0

  • Date: Saturday, January 6, 2024
  • Time: 10:00 PM ET
  • TV: CBS Sports Network
  • Stream: FuboTV — Get a free trial
  • Where: Albuquerque, New Mexico
  • Venue: The Pit

On Saturday, January 6, 2024, at The Pit, the Wyoming Cowboys (8-6, 1-0 MWC) seek to break a four-game road losing streak as they face the New Mexico Lobos (12-2, 0-1 MWC). 

The match will be televised at 10:00 PM ET on CBS Sports Network. This preview delves into the odds and lines for the New Mexico vs. Wyoming game.

In their recent matchup against San Jose State, the Wyoming Cowboys they secured a narrow victory with a final score of 75-73.

 In terms of personal fouls, the Cowboys accumulated 10, while San Jose State totaled 17 fouls.

 Wyoming displayed proficiency from long range, making 12 of 31 attempts. San Jose State managed a 75.0% success rate in free throws, converting 9 of 12 attempts. 

Despite collecting 35 boards (8 offensive, 27 defensive), San Jose State failed to record a block.

 They recorded nine assists and two steals. On the defensive end, Wyoming allowed their opponents to shoot 44.1% from the floor, with 26 successful shots out of 59 attempts. 

Wyoming distributed ten assists, forced 11 turnovers, and secured six steals. They earned 29 rebounds, including 5 offensive rebounds. 

The Cowboys achieved an impressive 92.0% accuracy from the free-throw line, making 23 of 25 attempts. 

Wyoming finished with a 42.1% field goal percentage (24 out of 57) and converted 4 out of 12 three-point attempts. Sam Griffin played a crucial role in the game, shooting 50.0% from the floor, contributing two assists, and grabbing six rebounds. 

He played for 36 minutes and scored 23 points on 10 out of 20 shooting.

Looking at their overall performance, Wyoming holds an 8-6 win-loss record for the season. 

They average 74.9 points per game, shooting 45.8% from the field. The Cowboys have a 40.5% success rate on three-pointers (102 of 252) and a 75.7% accuracy from the free-throw line.

 Wyoming secures an average of 33.9 rebounds per game and has recorded 168 assists for the season. However, they face challenges with turnovers, averaging 14.5 per game and committing 15.5 fouls on average.

Defensively, the Cowboys force 14.1 turnovers per game and draw 20.9 personal fouls. 

They allow opponents to shoot 44.2% from the field and concede an average of 32.9 rebounds per game. Wyoming permits a 32.2% success rate on three-pointers and is ranked 231st in points allowed per game (73.0).

The New Mexico Lobos suffered a 76-68 defeat against Colorado State in their previous game. 

Despite securing 21 defensive rebounds and five offensive rebounds, totaling 26 rebounds, the Lobos committed ten turnovers and managed to steal the ball ten times. 

Colorado State committed 14 personal fouls, sending the Lobos to the free-throw line for 11 attempts, of which they converted 4 (36.4%).

 New Mexico shot 47.1% from three-point range, making 8 of 17 attempts. The Lobos shot 46.7% from the field, converting 28 of 60 attempts. 

Defensively, they allowed Colorado State to shoot 49.1% from the field, making 26 of 53 attempts. 

Colorado State achieved a 31.6% success rate from three-point range, making 6 of 19 attempts. Colorado State shot 85.7% from the free-throw line, converting 18 of 21 attempts.

JT Toppin was a standout player for the Lobos in the game, shooting 57.1% from the field, grabbing 11 rebounds, and contributing two assists. He scored 17 points in 30 minutes of play.

New Mexico holds a 12-2 record for the season, shooting 46.8% from the field and averaging 83.4 points per game. They secure an average of 40.5 rebounds per game and record 16.2 assists per contest. 

However, turnovers remain a concern, with an average of 10.6 per game. The Lobos commit 18.9 personal fouls, shooting 66.1% from the free-throw line.

Defensively, the Lobos allow 67.8 points per game, forcing 16.2 turnovers per contest. 

They limit opponents to a 40.4% field goal success rate and a 30.5% success rate from three-point range. 

New Mexico concedes an average of 71.8% from the free-throw line and allows 35.6 rebounds per game.

New Mexico boasts a 9-4-0 record against the spread this season, contrasting with Wyoming’s 5-8-0. 

Regarding surpassing the set point total, the Lobos’ games stand at 5-8-0, while the Cowboys’ are at 8-5-0. 

Over the past ten games, New Mexico holds an 8-2 record against the spread and an impressive 9-1 overall performance. 

Conversely, Wyoming has recorded a 4-6 against the spread and a 5-5 overall record in its last ten games.

 According to the computer numbers prediction, the projected final score favors New Mexico heavily, with an expected outcome of 82-67.

New Mexico holds a 9-4-0 record against the spread this season, while Wyoming stands at 5-8-0. 

Regarding hitting the over, the Lobos’ games are at 5-8-0, while the Cowboys’ are at 8-5-0. Over the past ten games, New Mexico boasts an 8-2 record against the spread and a 9-1 overall performance.

 On the other hand, Wyoming has gone 4-6 against the spread and 5-5 overall in its last ten games.

 New Mexico Players to watch.


JT Toppin leads the team with an impressive average of 7.9 rebounds per game. He also contributes 12.7 points and 0.6 assists, showcasing an impressive shooting accuracy of 67.3%.

Nelly Junior Joseph contributes across the board with 8.9 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. On the defensive end, he also makes an impact with 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocked shots.

Wyoming Players to watch.

Akuel Kot contributes significantly to the Cowboys, delivering 15.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. Additionally, he maintains averages of 0.9 steals and 0.1 blocked shots.

Caden Powell stands out as the leading rebounder for the Cowboys, securing an impressive 6.1 rebounds per game while also contributing 8.1 points and 1.7 assists.

 Look for Richard Pitinos Lobos to have a big bounce-back game from last week’s CSU Rams loss. 

The Lobos displayed an unusual struggle at the free-throw line and in rebounding, which are typically strengths for them. 

Key factors for their success include maintaining the presence of point guard Jaelen House on the court without foul trouble and consistent double-figure scoring from Jamal Mashburn.

As well as a  strong performance from post-freshman JT Toppin and contributions from Donovan Dent, who has recently struggled with a thigh injury. 

Dent has looked downright scary with his explosive plays and court savvy when healthy. 

The PIT proves to be a challenging venue for opposing teams to secure victories, and the Lobos aim to leverage the energy from their home court to secure their first Mountain West Conference win.Advertisement

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Barstool Sports Arizona Bowl: Game Preview, How to Watch, Odds, Key Players, Who’s Out and Predictions

The Wyoming Cowboys look to take home an Arizona Bowl win against the Toledo Rockets in Craig Bohl’s final game as head coach.

 

Barstool Sports Arizona Bowl: Game Preview, How to Watch, Odds, Key Players, Who’s Out and Predictions

The Wyoming Cowboys travel to Tucson for the Barstool Sports Arizona Bowl, taking on the MAC runner-up Toledo Rockets. For the Cowboys’ head coach, Craig Bohl, it will be his final game before retirement, where the Pokes hope to seal its first nine-win season since 1996.

Contact/Follow @KayceeClark and @MWCwire

Mountain West bowl season ends in the desert.

BARSTOOL SPORTS ARIZONA BOWL: Toledo Rockets (11-2, 8-0 MAC) vs. Wyoming Cowboys (8-4, 5-3 MW)

WHEN: Saturday, December 30 — 2:30 PM MT

WHERE: Arizona Stadium (50,782)

TV: CW Network/Barstool Sports

RADIO: Cowboy Sports Network

SERIES RECORD: Series tied 1-1

LAST MATCHUP: Toledo won 34-31 on Sept. 8, 2012, in Laramie, Wyo.

WEBSITES: GoWyo.com, the official Wyoming athletics website; UTRockets.com, the official Toledo athletics website.

GAME NOTES: Wyoming | Toledo

ODDS: Wyoming -3.5

OVER/UNDER: 44.5 points

SP+ PROJECTION: Toledo by 7.8

FEI PROJECTION: Toledo by 1.4

PARKER FLEMING PROJECTION: Wyoming 58.99% win probability (27.04-24.03)

In only the third meeting between programs, the Toledo Rockets and Wyoming Cowboys enter the Barstool Sports Arizona Bowl with sizeable record differences. The Rockets are 11-2 after falling to Miami (Ohio) in the MAC Championship Game and losing out on the chance to play in a New Year’s Six bowl game. A 5-1 start for the Cowboys had the team rolling with predictions of a Wyoming New Year’s Six bowl game. However, the Group of Five bid became unimaginable as the Pokes finished the season 3-3. 

The announcement of Wyoming head coach Craig Bohl’s retirement following the game has become one of the commanding storylines of the Wyoming team and Arizona Bowl. After a decade at the helm of the Cowboys, Bohl’s departure allowed the program to promote defensive coordinator Jay Sawvel as the 33rd head coach of Wyoming. The game’s outcome will also determine whether Bohl concludes his career with a winning or losing record for the Cowboys.

On the opposite sideline, the Rockets will be without quarterback DeQuan Finn — after five years in the program — as he has entered the transfer portal and committed to Baylor. The absence of Finn leaves a question mark at quarterback and offensive production. Assumingly, Tucker Gleason will be under center for Toledo. 

The Rocket’s offense has demonstrated its explosiveness all season long, scoring 30 or more points in eight games. They have also averaged 426.2 yards a game through its 13 games thus far. With backup Gleason, the team’s offense will still be able to count on running back Peny Boone, the seventh-leading rusher in FBS with 1,400 yards.

In comparison, Wyoming has only managed 324.8 yards per game, which ranks 107th nationally. However, in the final two games, the Wyoming offense averaged 440.5 yards per game against Hawaii and Nevada, including 42 points in each game and holding opponents to single digits. 

Both teams also enjoy the athletes’ accomplishments, with multiple all-conference players on each team. Toledo boasts 10 All-MAC First Team players, including Finn and Boone, and 14 total players awarded. Wyoming has two All-Mountain West First Team players, offensive lineman Frank Crum and linebacker Easton Gibbs. The Pokes also had six others make the all-conference teams. 

With the Rockets and Cowboys’ all-star-caliber players, there are significant players on both sides of the ball for both sidelines. 

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Key players and pieces (and those missing)

Toledo

With Finn’s transfer to Baylor, the question is whether Gleason will produce at levels similar to Finn’s. The backup stepped in last season for two games while Finn was injured and outperformed Finn against Western Michigan. However, Gleason has had limited opportunities this season, only appearing in three blowout victories. This season, he is 14 of 21 for 199 yards and four touchdowns against Texas Southern, Western Michigan and Eastern Michigan.

Having Finn under center, the offense operated using a dual-threat style of play for the quarterback. However, Gleason has only rushed the ball significantly once last season against Bowling Green. How will the transition work from a dual-threat quarterback to Gleason’s pocket presence?

Expect Toledo’s game plan to heavily emphasize the rushing attack, as it has all season long. However, Boone announced on Dec. 26 that he would enter the transfer portal. Instead, running back Jacquez Stuart, the All-MAC First Team kick returner, will be the presumed starter. Stuart finished the season with 475 yards and five touchdowns on the ground. The rushing game could falter for the Rockets as Stuart has not demonstrated the explosive runs like Boone.

The offense also lacks all-conference offensive lineman Vinny Sciury, who has announced his transfer to Texas Tech.

Defensively, the Rockets can also contain and sack the quarterback, heavily assisted by defensive tackle Judge Culpepper. On the season, Culpepper leads the team in sacks, with nine, and tackles for loss, with 10.5. The team has 35 sacks on the season, tied for 17th best in the nation.

Wyoming

Unlike previous seasons, the transfer portal has not heavily impacted the Cowboys. Thus far, the Pokes have only had four players enter the portal, with only one being a starter, cornerback Kolbey Taylor.

Instead, Wyoming enters the Arizona Bowl with nearly all talent available. This includes several players’ last game for the Cowboys, such as quarterback Andrew Peasley. In the most efficient season of his career, Peasley threw for career highs in yards, touchdowns, completion percentage, touchdown-interception ratio, rushing yards, and rushing touchdowns. The quarterback also received an honorable mention to the All-Mountain West team. The Cowboys’ captain threw for a career-high 319 yards against Hawaii on only 14 completions. 

Despite only averaging 167 yards through the air, Peasley has contributed to several Wyoming victories this season, including three-touchdown games against Texas Tech, Portland State, Fresno State, Hawaii and a four-touchdown game at Nevada. 

In addition, Wyoming’s transfer running back from last year, Harrison Waylee, has given a spark to the Pokes’ rushing attack. Waylee’s average of 95 rushing yards a game is 23rd at the FBS level, and 5.8 yards per carry ranks 34th. 

Waylee introduced himself to Pokes fans with his first appearance at No. 4 Texas, where he would break a 62-yard touchdown and finish with 110 yards. He would post a season-high of 191 yards against New Mexico. Waylee only dropped under four yards a carry in two losses this season, Boise State and UNLV.

While the offense isn’t missing its regular pieces, it will be without offensive coordinator Tim Polasek as he transitions to the head coaching job at North Dakota State. 

On the other side of the ball, Gibbs leads the team in tackles and will play a critical factor in the game on Saturday. The All-Mountain West First Team linebacker plays a pivotal role on defense by stopping the run. Gibbs has forced the second most turnovers on the team — behind safety Wyett Ekeler —with two forced fumbles and an interception.

The special teams of Wyoming can undoubtedly be special. Kicker John Hoyland has had a stellar career with the Cowboys, but around halfway through the season, he found himself in his worst statistical year. Hoyland missed his first extra point of his career and was one for seven on field goals in the second half of the season. If the Arizona Bowl comes down to a field goal, will the red shoe be able to come through?

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Cowboys or Rockets?

The Barstool Sports Arizona Bowl will not be a barn-burning shootout whatsoever. With both teams taking hits on the offensive side of the ball due to the transfer portal and coaching changes, it is unlikely that either team will explode for 30 or more points. Toledo only allows about 20 points per game, while Wyoming gives up about 23, both teams within the top 50 of FBS. The Cowboys and Rockets possess solid defenses that have helped them win games. Toledo’s Quinyon Mitchell — an All-American Second Teamer by AP, FWAA, AFCA and Sporting News — will be an influential factor in the passing game as he is second in the country in passes defended. 

Wyoming does not have just one player who stands out on defense but a combination of many. The all-around player Ekeler’s presence offers potential for lost yards and sacks with blitzes, pass coverage and interceptions, and stripping the ball away from carriers. Defensive back Wrook Brown leads the team in interceptions, and Devonne Harris and Braden Siders can get the quarterback as they have the most sacks on the team. 

This season was a challenge for the Cowboys defense. They have already faced three top-20 rushing yards per game backs in Jacory Croskey-Merritt (New Mexico), Jonathon Brooks (Texas) and Ashton Jeanty (Boise State). Even with the absence of Boone for Toledo, Wyoming has proven to limit the rushing attack of backs. 

In addition, the combination of defensive proficiency and offensive efficiency has allowed the Cowboys to be up 10 in the turnover margin this season. Compared to Toledo at two below even, it is more likely to see a player in brown and gold get a takeaway. 

As a wild prediction, with a turnover for one of the teams, there will be a defensive score in this bowl game. Whether it is a pick-six or a scoop and score, a tight game will be decided by a defensive touchdown. Based on the turnover margin and lack of turnovers by the Wyoming offense, a particular team is more likely to be the one to get it.

The bowl game could also become the staple for Bohl’s tenure at Wyoming. Currently sitting at 60-60 in his career for the Cowboys, a victory gives him a winning record, while a loss ends his career in poor taste. This game means more for Bohl, and while he has always preached the mantra of taking a season game by game, his final game will feel better with a win. The Pokes know it is his final game and will play with more intensity and desire to win a bowl for Bohl. In a storybook ending for the season, some players’ careers and Bohl, the game will be close but end in a Wyoming victory.

Wyoming 23 – Toledo 20

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How San Jose State Football Fans Should Remember QB Chevan Cordeiro

How San Jose State Football Fans Should Remember QB Chevan Cordeiro Cordeiro had a great run with the Spartans. Follow @MattWeiner20 & @MWCwire Looking back at Cordeiro’s career. It’s been a few days since Chevan Cordeiro stood outside San Jose …

How San Jose State Football Fans Should Remember QB Chevan Cordeiro

Cordeiro had a great run with the Spartans.

Follow @MattWeiner20 & @MWCwire

Looking back at Cordeiro’s career.

It’s been a few days since Chevan Cordeiro stood outside San Jose State’s locker room and reflected on a career that spanned six years, 12,191 passing yards and two schools – Hawaii (four) and San Jose State (two).

Should SJSU fans do some reflecting of their own?  They should view Cordeiro – one of two SJSU quarterbacks to reach back-to-back bowl games – as the one who helped turn the 2020 Mountain West Championship season into SJSU’s golden era.  

Following that 2020 Mountain West Championship, when SJSU fans saw head coach Brent Brennan being rewarded with a record contract extension, it gave them hope.

Still, some were doubtful of SJSU’s dollar-backed ambitions to build off success.

In 2012, SJSU finished 11-2 and won the Military Bowl. By 2014 it was 3-9. In 2006, the Spartans finished 9-4 and won the New Mexico Bowl. It won a combined three games between 2009-10.

Then in 1990, SJSU finished 9-2 and won the California Bowl. By 1993 it was 2-9 and won a combined nine games from 1994-96.

You get the point. 

A familiar fear crept in following the 2021 season. SJSU finished 5-7 and with bowl eligibility on the line was trounced by rival Fresno State 40-9 – at home. 

Then San Jose State benefited off an unfortunate situation when Cordeiro transferred to SJSU from Hawaii to escape a toxic environment fostered by former UH head coach Todd Graham. 

“[When] I came from Hawaii to [SJSU] I was in a bad place mentally. I didn’t really like football,” Cordeiro said last Saturday.

The situation was so grim he debated retiring from football.

“When I got here the whole team took me in as a brother already. The first day I got there … doesn’t really matter about the wins and losses. The love of the game. I found that again. That’s what I’ll remember for the rest of my life.”

That “love” was re-established in 2022 when he led SJSU to the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl – program’s first time reaching two bowl games in the span of three years since 1987. During this time, he broke a single-season rushing touchdown record (nine), finished with the third-most passing touchdowns (23) and the fifth-most passing yards (3,252).

Though his stats declined in 2023, it’s the season he should be remembered for. 

When SJSU sank to 1-5 there was a tacit need for the offense to shift from pass-heavy to run-heavy. A lackluster pass game wasn’t all Cordeiro’s fault of course. During training camp, wide receiver Justin Lockhart – a 2023 Preseason All-Mountain West selection – sustained a season-ending injury. 

With 2023 being Cordeiro’s last opportunity to raise his draft profile, few could blame him if he exhibited a poor attitude. It’s only human nature to be more focused on his agenda than the teams. 

But he didn’t. And when SJSU running back Kairee Robinson became the face of the Spartans ascent from 1-5 to bowl eligibility and a shared Mountain West regular-season title, he showed little envy.

In post-game press conferences, he smiled and tapped the side of the podium while praising Robinson and the offensive line.

Maybe that’s the blessing of the wretched final chapters at UH?

Being around a positive culture was enough. 

“The two years that I’ve been here I never thought that the best part would be the film room just joking around. They made it fun again,” Cordeiro said last Saturday as cameras illuminated his glossy, flush-crimson eyes. 

Some may point to Cordeiro’s two bowl losses, 14-11 overall record and the fact ranks 10th in passing yards (5,809), eighth in passing touchdowns (42) and fifth all-time in completion percentage per 400 attempts (61.4%) and feel he doesn’t belong in the upper echelon of SJSU quarterbacks. 

Sure, all-time ranks wise Cordeiro’s career doesn’t equate to being an SJSU Mount Rushmore figure. Those same people perhaps aren’t looking at SJSU’s penchant for disappointment and a key stat: his Touchdown: Interception ratio of 4.3 : 1. The next best? David Fales at 3 TD: 1 INT. 

Therein lies how Cordeiro should be remembered: the quarterback who put SJSU in a position to win. 

As a result, he raised the standard for the next SJSU quarterback. 

Bowl eligibility is good but not good enough. Now it’s time to win one with the next quarterback.

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EasyPost Hawaii Bowl: Game Preview, How To Watch, Odds, Prediction

San Jose State and Coastal Carolina will battle on the islands to close out 2023. Here’s how to watch and what to watch for.

 

EasyPost Hawaii Bowl: Game Preview, How To Watch, Odds, Prediction

The San Jose State Spartans and Coastal Carolina Chanticleers will battle on the islands to close out 2023. Here’s how to watch and what to watch for.

Contact/Follow @MWCwire

Who will gift themselves a pre-Christmas W?

EASYPOST HAWAII BOWL: Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (7-5, 5-3 Sun Belt) vs. San Jose State Spartans (7-5, 6-2 Mountain West)

WHEN: Saturday, December 23 — 7:30 PM PT/8:30 PM MT

WHERE: Clarence T.C. Ching Complex; Honolulu, HI

WEATHER: Isolated showers and breezy, low of 73 degrees

TV: ESPN

STREAMING: Fans can sign up to receive a free one-week trial of Fubo, which includes ESPN, by following this link.

RADIO: The Coastal Carolina broadcast can be found on the affiliates of the Chanticleer Sports Radio Network, including flagship 99.5 FM (WRNN) in Myrtle Beach. The San Jose State broadcast can be found in and around San Jose on 860 AM (KTRB).

SERIES RECORD: This is the first meeting between Coastal Carolina and San Jose State.

LAST GAME: Coastal Carolina lost to James Madison at home, 56-14, while San Jose State defeated UNLV on the road, 37-31.

WEBSITES: GoCCUSports.com, the official Coastal Carolina athletics website | SJSUSpartans.com, the official San Jose State athletics website

GAME NOTES (PDF): Coastal Carolina | San Jose State

ODDS: San Jose State -9.5

SP+ PROJECTION: San Jose State by 1.0

FEI PROJECTION: San Jose State by 6.5

PARKER FLEMING PROJECTION: San Jose State 64.50% win probability (31.51-26.58)

As bowl season picks up in earnest, the Saturday nightcap will be the Hawaii Bowl, featuring two teams at 7-5, albeit with very different credentials: San Jose State, winners of their last six, and Coastal Carolina, who lost their last two. Both the Spartans and the Chanticleers will look to continue their offensive prowess, led by Chevan Cordeiro and Ethan Vasko, respectively. (Grayson McCall has since transferred to N.C. State.)

Both teams come in averaging more than 400 yards per game, and one would expect the offensive fireworks to continue one more time. The transfer portal has impacted both teams for this game, but at their heart these two teams are driven by offenses that will look to attack, early and often.

The game will also represent a homecoming of sorts for Chevan Cordeiro, having been raised in Hawaii and starting his collegiate career at the University of Hawaii.

Here’s how the Chanticleers and Spartans can win the 2023 Hawaii Bowl.

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Three Keys to a Coastal Carolina Victory

1. Protect Ethan Vasko.

Grayson McCall has moved on to N.C. State and Vasko is named the starter for this game. He will need time to throw and settle in early for the Chanticleers to have a shot in this game.

2. Establish the running game.

A running game will take a lot of pressure off Vasko and allow the game to play at a slower pace, all while controlling time of possession.

3. Prepare a trick play (or two)

An onside kick, flea flicker, something that breaks up the norm could go a long way in a closely-contested game like this

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Three Keys to a San Jose State Victory

1. Establish the running game.

Kairee Robinson and Quali Conley are among the leaders in the conference, and as with Coastal Carolina, the running game can control time of possession will keep the Chanticleers offense on the sidelines.

2. Establish a viable tight end in the offense.

Dominick Mazzotti has entered the transfer portal and provided a reliable receiver for Cordeiro in many a situation. Cordeiro will need to rely on a new tight end to take the pressure off his wide receivers.

3. Establish the defensive line pressure

The Spartans’ defense has proven to be opportunistic, a bend-but-not-break type, especially for its front seven. If San Jose State can get in the Chanticleers’ backfield and disrupt, that can prove to be effective as well.

Prediction

Based on the statistics, expect a high-scoring affair, with both offenses eager to finish their seasons on a high note. The Spartans’ running game should be the difference maker, however, controlling time of possession and limiting the Chanticleer offense time on the field.

San Jose State 37, Coastal Carolina 33

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The Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl: Air Force Runs Over James Madison 31-21

The Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl: Air Force Runs Over James Madison 31-21 The Falcons Nuke the Dukes Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire After going winless in the month of November, following an 8-0 start to the season, Air Force corrects course …

The Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl: Air Force Runs Over James Madison 31-21

The Falcons Nuke the Dukes

Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire

After going winless in the month of November, following an 8-0 start to the season, Air Force corrects course by winning the Armed Forces Bowl in convincing fashion. The Falcons wore out the Dukes by a score of 31-21.

Entering the contest, the Dukes of JMU were favored, and for good reason. They just capped off a 12-1 campaign, and feature one of the top passing attacks in the country, and what was statistically the stoutest defense against the run nationally. Air Force said hold my beer.

JMU learned early on what many do the hard way; Air Force is built different. There aren’t any teams on the Dukes schedule that pose the kind of problems that the Falcons do, in particular in the run game. James Madison was averaging just 2 yards per carry allowed, and 62 yards per game on the ground for the season. Senior fullback, Emmanuel Michel pounded the Dukes for over 200 rush yards and two tudd’s on his own.

It was a great way to end the season, winning their 9th game of the season over a very good opponent. The Air Force seniors really showed up and impacted the game; from an unblockable Bo Richter being a menace and disrupting the Dukes offense all game long, to John Lee Eldridge III and Emmanuel Michel shredding JMU’s vaunted defense, Jonathan Youngblood’s interception and Zach Larrier’s flawless execution of the offense behind the road grading Diesel’s, the senior stars shined the brightest.

The Air Force Fightin’ Falcons have won their fifth consecutive Bowl Game, and are Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl Champions!

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Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl: Game Preview, How To Watch, Odds, Prediction

The Air Force Falcons look to fly high once more in 2023 and take down the James Madison Dukes. Here’s how to watch and what to watch for.

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Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl: Game Preview, How To Watch, Odds, Prediction

The Air Force Falcons look to fly high once more in 2023 and take down the James Madison Dukes. Here’s how to watch and what to watch for.

Contact/Follow @MWCwire

The cadets hope to extend a five-game bowl winning streak.

LOCKHEED MARTIN ARMED FORCES BOWL: James Madison Dukes (11-1, 7-1 Sun Belt) vs. Air Force Falcons (8-4, 5-3 Mountain West)

WHEN: Saturday, December 23 — 1:30 PM MT/12:30 PM PT

WHERE: Amon G. Carter Stadium; Fort Worth, TX

WEATHER: Cloudy with a chance of showers, high of 67 degrees

TV: ABC

STREAMING: Fans can sign up to receive a free one-week trial of Fubo, which includes ABC, by following this link.

RADIO: The James Madison broadcast can be found on the affiliates of the Morris Insurance and Financial Services Broadcast Network, including flagship 550 AM and 92.1 FM (WSVA) in Harrisonburg. The Air Force broadcast can be found on 740 AM (KVOR) in Colorado Springs and 104.3 FM The Fan in Denver.

SERIES RECORD: This is the first meeting between James Madison and Air Force.

LAST GAME: James Madison defeated Coastal Carolina on the road, 56-14, while Air Force lost to Boise State on the road, 27-19.

WEBSITES: JMUSports.com, the official James Madison athletics website | GoAirForceFalcons.com, the official Air Force athletics website

GAME NOTES (PDF): James Madison | Air Force

ODDS: James Madison -1

SP+ PROJECTION: James Madison by 8.1

FEI PROJECTION: James Madison by 6.9

PARKER FLEMING PROJECTION: James Madison 58.99% win probability (28.29-21.61)

Darlings of the Group of Five for much of the 2023 season, James Madison, will try and earn their first Bowl win. Standing in the way of their potential 12th win and inaugural Bowl victory are the Air Force Fightin’ Falcons.

It’s truly been an impressive season for JMU, who just entered the FBS. Despite some frankly ridiculous NCAA policies which prevented them from playing for a Conference Championship in the Sun Belt (as a deemed probation year at the FBS level), which they were far and away the top team of, they still find themselves at the doorstep of a season complete with Bowl hardware and national ranking. Not too bad for a team that was competing at the FCS level just one year ago.

Air Force on the other hand was right up there with the Dukes atop the class of the Group of Five programs, right until the calendar turned to November. Even since that devastating loss to Army, which was their first of the season after starting 8-0, they have yet to win a game.

In fact, it’s fair to say the Air Force team that played the last four games of the season hardly resembled that which began the season with an eight-game surge. There are a number of reasons that wins have eluded the Falcons, many of which remain as they face off against a very formidable opponent in Fort Worth, Texas. But don’t assume JMU will just roll the Falcon’s as clear favorites in this matchup. Air Force is not going to be like any other team the Dukes have faced this year. And just ask their last four Bowl opponents what it’s like playing Air Force in December; Baylor, Louisville, Wazzu and South Alabama provide a cautionary tale.

Here’s how the Dukes and Falcons can find a path to victory to finish 2023.

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Three Keys to a James Madison Victory

1. Tackles For Loss

Nothing derails an Air Force drive quite like Tackles for Loss (TFL’s). The Falcon offense is designed for modest but consistent against, down after down. Coincidentally, the Air Force defense also thrived on this philosophy, because when their offense is sustaining long clock grinding drives, it limits possessions and opportunities for the opposition.

TFL’s happen to be the Dukes specialty though. No one has collected more tackles behind the line of scrimmage than JMU. They’ve gathered 45 sacks on the season as part of that collection. If they can carry that play behind the Air Force line of scrimmage, it will be a very long day for an offense that has had their share of struggles lately.

2. Splash Plays

It’s no secret that JMU likes to chuck the ball around, and their transfer quarterback-to-be, Jordan McLoud, is quite good at it. Stop me if you heard this one before, but Air Force is going to have their hands full with another talented transfer portal player.

McCloud threw 32 touchdowns this year, and his two favorite targets Reggie Brown and Elijah Sarratt both averaged over 80 receiving yards per game. Brown in particular averaged 19.8 yards per catch. Those are Jalen Robinette numbers for you throwback enthusiasts.

This is critical to point out because during the Falcon’s late season nose dive, they were surrendering far too many big plays. Granted, they were often times against All-American players such as Ricky White and Ashton Jeanty, but their opponent on Saturday is every bit as capable of gashing them for large chunks of yardage.

3. Early Lead

Similar to early down victories mentioned in the first key, forcing an Air Force offense that has become inconsistent to play from behind could help pave the path to victory. Even if Zac Larrier is able to go for the Falcons, the offense hasn’t shown the kind of punch their opponents have, in particular with an ability to get quick strike scores. Falling behind early would be a big problem against what’s been a very stingy defense. The fact that the Bolts have yet to win a game when entering the 3rd quarter behind is evidence this should be a concern.

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Three Keys to an Air Force Victory

1. Early Down Success 

The ability to move the ball on early down sets the tone for the entire Air Force gameplan. Not just the offense.

Early down success for this offense is a steady appetite of three or four yard gains. Three yards at a clip isn’t exactly eye popping in today’s game, but it’s exactly what this team feeds on. It has such a cumulative effect by building momentum, establishing confidence, wearing out the defense, and limiting the opposition’s offensive possessions.

I would take it a step further and say that early down success has to lead to early game points. As mentioned earlier, they are going to need touchdowns to beat James Madison. To quote the immortal John Kreese “Strike First. Strike Hard. No Mercy.”. Air Force is 5-0 when scoring first this season.

2. Protect the Ball

Awaiting the Falcons is a JMU team that is one of the best nationally in turnover margin, at +.75. And it’s no coincidence that the Air Force late season collapse coincides with a significant increase in turnovers.

To date, Air Force has put the ball on the ground 21 times, losing 11 of those fumbles. Even if recovered, those fumbles are usually resulting in significant damage to their drives by lost yardage. And the Dukes are well versed at helping other teams forfeit possessions, forcing 21 turnovers on the season.

3. Details

The thing Air Force prides itself on is being detail oriented. I mean how else could a team that is clearly disadvantaged when it comes to recruiting and player development be so successful if they don’t find other ways to get an edge.

The offensive scheme they run is based on timing, precision, and chemistry. That leaks into all three phases of their game. It’s in part why a team that has gone four deep at cornerback and two to three deep all over the field, including quarterback, are still able to reel off an eight-win season.

You can only play who is healthy and available, and one of the things they do better than anyone is prepare the parts so they are interchangeable (to an extent) and can be plugged in to keep the machine humming.

Blown coverage, poor mesh point on a handoff, or missed blocks can be game changers on Saturday. The details matter. Executing at an elite level will be required to win this game.

Prediction

It would be lazy to just point to the last month of Air Force football as reason to pack it in on the season. But the reality is there were a lot of warts revealed on a team that looked really good climbing up to 17th in the AP Polls at one point. That seems like a lifetime ago quite honestly.

Meanwhile, James Madison has kept piling on victories. They enter this game with the nation’s most stout run defense, giving up just 2 yards per carry, and around 60 total rush yards per game. Anything close to that kind of success against Air Force will not just guarantee victory, but likely a not-so competitive game.

What I would suggest though, look at the schedules of these two teams and the scores. As bad as losses to Army and Hawai’i looked, those two defeats at the hands of the Mountain West Championship teams, Boise State and UNLV aren’t quite so bad. I’m not sure JMU would have fared any better playing either team at the time Air Force did.

I expect both teams to have their hands full with the particular niche’ each’s opponent presents. The way the Dukes sling the ball all over the field poses a big problem in my opinion. And that is no indictment on the Air Force secondary that features the best defensive back in the country, Trey Taylor. JMU proved week in and week out, they can execute a passing scheme at an elite level.

I expect the Air Force offense to be the deciding factor in this game. There are so many unknowns with injury entering this game, it really can change the complexion of things. Whether it’s Larrier, Jensen Jones or John Busha, they need to play a clean game and rely on that veteran ‘Diesel’ offensive line.

The defense will step up and make plays through the game as they did all season, But if they expect to lean on them to keep this a single digit game to win, that is going to result in a disappointing trip home from the Lone Star State.

There are a lot of very proud players suiting up for the last time on both sidelines. For Air Force, it’s senior laden with players who elected and fulfilled their four plus year commitment to the United States Air Force Academy and see the mission through with their teammates. Combine that with the edge a veteran head coach like Troy Calhoun gives you, versus JMU who is breaking in the new head-man as Frank Cignetti heads to middle-America, and I actually expect an Air Force win.

The 8-0 Air Force team that started the year is still in that locker room and on that sideline. Even if impacted by health, it’s a team that’s better than many. That includes an 11-1 James Madison Dukes team.

Air Force 27, James Madison 24

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