Mountain West Football: Players Of The Month For October

The weather is finally cooling down, but these Mountain West football standouts were red-hot throughout spooky season.

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Mountain West Football: Players of the Month For October


The weather is finally cooling down, but these Mountain West football standouts were red-hot throughout spooky season.


Contact/Follow @MattK_FS & @MWCwire

The small-sample elite.

Note: Players below are presented in alphabetical order.

Offensive Players of the Month

1. Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

Though Jeanty was limited by injury in Boise State’s victory over Wyoming in Week 9, the super sophomore still posted one of the nation’s best overall performances through October. In three games, Jeanty posted a Mountain West-best 163.3 all-purpose yards per game, averaging a whopping 7.08 yards per carry on the ground, and scored three touchdowns.

2. Kairee Robinson, RB, San Jose State

The Spartans surged in October thanks in large part to their star senior in the backfield. It was Robinson, not Jeanty, that led the Mountain West with 435 rushing yards and nine total touchdowns last month, though he also chipped in with ten receptions for 165 yards for the SJSU passing game, as well.

3. Jalen Royals, WR, Utah State

After posting a monster game to close out September against UConn, Royals kept the good times rolling into last month with a pair of 100-yard performances, racking up 17 catches for 325 yards in three contests, and a conference-high five receiving touchdowns.

4. Ricky White, WR, UNLV

Though the Rebels ended October with a bit of heartache, you can’t say White didn’t do everything possible to keep UNLV in the title game chase. After all, he tallied 24 catches for a Mountain West-high 400 receiving yards with touchdowns, topping 150 yards against both Nevada and Fresno State.

Defensive Players of the Month

1. Jay’Vion Cole, CB, San Jose State

If Cole’s October performance is any indication, the Spartans’ newest star defender is quietly putting together a pretty solid candidacy for defensive player of the year. He was the only defender in the Mountain West to intercept three passes last month, doing so across four games, though he added two additional pass breakups and, according to Pro Football Focus, allowed a reception on 10 of 21 targets.

2. Mohamed Kamara, DE, Colorado State

Where Cole’s case might be subtle, Kamara’s defensive player of the year push disrupted offenses just about as frequently as it did in September. He once again paced the Mountain West with four sacks and finished third among conference defenders with five tackles for loss while also racking up 20 total tackles.

3. Bo Richter, DE, Air Force

Then again, the same could be said of Richter, who posted an overall PFF grade of 81.7 throughout October, the seventh-best mark among Mountain West defenders who played at least 50 snaps, and racked up three sacks, seven tackles for loss, and a forced fumble to go along with 11 total tackles in three Falcons contests.

4. Jackson Woodard, LB, UNLV

When it came to tackling, few players in the country were as prolific as Woodard was in the middle of the Rebels defense last month. He was one of only 15 FBS players to average at least 11 tackles per game, though he also intercepted a pass against Hawaii and, according to PFF, also tied for third among Mountain West defenders with eight total stops.

Air Force at Colorado State: How the Falcons can defeat the Rams

Air Force at Colorado State: How the Falcons can defeat the Rams The Battle for the Ram-Falcon Trophy Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire Can Air Force win their 7th straight against the CSU? WEEK 9: Air Force Falcons 7-0 (4-0) vs. Colorado State Rams …

Air Force at Colorado State: How the Falcons can defeat the Rams


The Battle for the Ram-Falcon Trophy


Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire

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Can Air Force win their 7th straight against the CSU?

WEEK 9: Air Force Falcons 7-0 (4-0) vs. Colorado State Rams 3-4 (1-2)

WHEN: Saturday, October 28th — 5 P.M. MT/ 4 P.M. PT

WHERE: Canvas Stadium (Fort Collins, CO)

WEATHER: Snow in the evening will give way to lingering snow showers overnight. Low 19F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 80%. 1 to 3 inches of snow expected.

TV: CBS Sports Network
Rich Waltz (play-by-play), Aaron Taylor (analyst), Brandon Baylor (sidelines)

RADIO: KVOR AM 740 in Colorado Springs, 104.3 the Fan in Denver, SIRIUS XM 380, SXM 970
Jim Arthur (play-by-play), Jesse Kurtz (analyst)

SERIES RECORD: Air Force leads the series record 38-21-1

WEBSITES: CSURams.com, the official Colorado State athletics website | GoAirForceFalcons.com, the official Air Force athletics website

GAME NOTES (PDF): CSU | Air Force

SP+ PROJECTION: Air Force by 17.3

FEI PROJECTION: Air Force by 18.6

PARKER FLEMING PROJECTIONS: Air Force has an 72.25% chance to win (27.17-18.31)

Don’t blink, somehow we are already at week 9 of the college football season. Wedged in between games against Air Force’s primary rivals Army and Navy, is a “trap game” versus the CSU Rams.

The Falcons have been rolling through the season like a finely tuned F-22 Raptor. The most recent victim enroute to Air Force’s 7-0 start was their rival brethren of the sea. If you look at the score, nothing about their win over Navy is really eye popping. If you watched the game, your eyes would affirm what the story of this season has been telling you; The Falcons have an elite defense, completely suffocating the Mids. Navy wouldn’t have recorded a score, or even much more than 50 yards of offense were it not for Air Force playing an overtly conservative final drive to wind down the game. And news flash; their offense is not one dimensional.

Zac Larrier was a masterful conductor of the offense in a game that by most accounts, he was not expected to play. He was surgical throwing the ball completing 4/5 passes for 151 yards, which included a 94 yards touchdown pass to Dane Kinamon. He’s yet to throw an interception on the season. All of this couched with the obligatory nod to the fact he is the Mountain West Track champion. Larrier is playing his position at a level equal to or above anyone else in the MWC, period.

Awaiting the Bolts in Fort Collins is a more than capable Colorado State Rams team. Understanding the term capable is in no way a promissory note for victory. CSU has been very up and down this year, and in typical Jekyll and Hyde fashion, it’s going to be a matter of which variety of the Ram’s team shows up Saturday that will dictate how much of a threat they are to hand Air Force their first L of the season.

Jay Norvell and Matt Mumme seem to have settled on their quarterback now, which is essential in their pass heavy approach. Braden Fowler-Nicolosi has gotten a lot of attention for the statistics he’s posted in his time as a starter. And a major factor in those numbers would be the plethora of weapons he has to throw to. There are Bonafide Biletnikoff and Mackey award candidates on that CSU offense in Dallin Holker and Tory Horton. The production doesn’t stop there though, they have great depth in their pass catchers.

Air Force have not faced the kind of passing attack like they will this week. However, weather doesn’t look like it will be endearing to a pass heavy approach. And conversely, CSU has not faced a team like Air Force on either side of the ball. That’s not to inflate the greatness of the Falcons, it’s more of a reference to their unorthodox offense, and unprecedentedly stifling defense.

HERE’S HOW AIR FORCE CAN TOPPLE THE RAMS

The talent on the CSU offense is well documented. This isn’t the first time they have featured tandems of wide receiver and tight end quality that rival anyone nationally. It’s almost what we have come to expect from the Rams. What we haven’t come to expect is wins as a result of the talent. One of the major reasons they’ve struggled to peak above mediocrity is their defense.

One of the worst defenses in the nation, the Rams are as bad as anyone at defending the pass, and their run defense is nothing to write home about. Air Force is not going to be met with the same resistance to the run as they did last week, in particular allowing their fullbacks to be the catalyst to their offense. CSU ranks 91st in run defense, surrendering 160 yards per game on the ground. Take a look at their schedule, there aren’t many elite rushing attacks on that schedule. Air Force must impose their will, leaning on the country’s number one rushing attack to lead the way.

If the stable of fullbacks don’t have a big game on the ground, it probably means John Lee Eldridge has some eye popping yards per carry numbers getting the ball on the edge. It is also likely that the 131st pass defense is taken advantage of by Larrier and crew while they load the box to try and contend the run.

Historically, even when Air Force has had a good defense, their achilles heel has been the secondary exposed by an effective pass game to open things up. It seems contrary to make that remark considering they rank 4th nationally at defending the pass, but their dominance at time of possession helps skew that statistic. This could be one of those games that the numbers don’t tell the story. Success defending the pass is going to be a group effort, getting after the quarterback and communicating at the second and third level. The experience of an Alec Mock and Trey Taylor will key in that regard.

The last area of focus is going to lean in on the Falcons strength, which is in the trenches. CSU has done a great job of getting after the quarterback, averaging three sacks per game. They have also protected the quarterback very well, especially when you consider how often they throw the ball.

The Air Force defensive front has line wreckers in Bo Richter and Peyton Zdroik. They need to be able to generate pressure on Saturday so Nicolosi isn’t comfortable working through his reads to these talented receivers. Meanwhile, the ‘Diesels’ up front for the Falcons need to keep Mohammed Kamara and company out of their backfield. Expect a blocking scheme that accounts for the Rams strength to be deployed to allow for steady gains in the snow.

It’s really interesting looking at the how the Rams have fared defensively, despite four of the better defensive players in all of the conference. This lends a lot of credence to the reality that teams that function as a unit are often far more formidable than one that might have highly talented individuals but lack communication or are more significantly flawed at other positions. Air Force feasts on a defense that is not on top of its’ game communicating.

You are in for a treat especially if you enjoy good secondary play as four of the best safeties in the conference will be featured in Jack Howell, Henry Blackburn, Trey Taylor and Jayden Goodwin. Unfortunately for CSU fans, I don’t see this game setting up to end their losing streak to Air Force at six. Weather could be a factor for both teams, but precision and execution will be the biggest factor. And no one has proven better than Troy Calhoun’s squad at that thus far.

Air Force 28 – Colorado State 20

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Week 8 Mountain West Football Bowl Projections

Week 8 Mountain West Football Bowl Projections UNLV is bowl eligible! Contact/Follow @JeremyMauss & @MWCwire Three teams are bowl eligible Fresno State, Air Force, and UNLV are the first three teams to become bowl eligible within the Mountain West. …

Week 8 Mountain West Football Bowl Projections


UNLV is bowl eligible!


Contact/Follow @JeremyMauss & @MWCwire

Three teams are bowl eligible

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Fresno State, Air Force, and UNLV are the first three teams to become bowl eligible within the Mountain West. The Rebels are bowl eligible for the the first time since 2013 when they finished with a 6-6 regular season record and went to the Heart of Dallas Bowl.

The Wyoming Cowboys should be the next team to get to bowl eligibility. They are 5-1 but have a tough matchup this week at Boise State. The Cowboys will get there relatively soon, if not this week.

Then there are a slow of three win teams with Boise State, San Jose State, Utah State, San Diego State, Colorado State, and New Mexico.

According to ESPN’s FPI, here are the chances of these teams getting to the needed six wins.

  • Wyoming 99.8%
  • Boise State at 62.5%
  • Utah State at 54.3%
  • San Jose State at 48.2%
  • Colorado State at 34.2 %
  • New Mexico at 13%
  • San Diego State at 9.7%

History has had seven Mountain West teams go bowling, so by going by that matrix that means the Broncos, Aggies, Spartans and Rams will be in the postseason to make it an extra one and go with eight teams.

The Aztecs 6-0 loss to Nevada gives very, very little confidence they can figure things out and get to a bowl game. The Lobos chances are slim due to the schedule.

They go to Nevada, host UNLV, go to Boise State and then Fresno State, with a finale hosting the Aggies. That is a tough go for a bowl game but getting to four wins would double last year’s win total.

BOWL LINEUP

– Famous Idaho Potato Bowl vs MAC
– Gronk LA Bowl vs Pac-12
– New Mexico Bowl vs Conference USA
– Barstool Arizona Bowl vs MAC
– EasyPost Hawai’i Bowl vs American Athletic

Mountain West has an affiliation to fill if needed …
– Guaranteed Rate Bowl vs Big Ten or Big 12

To be determined among the Group of Five conferences … as other options
– Duluth Trading Co. Cure Bowl Pool vs. Pool
– Frisco Bowl Pool vs. Pool
– RoofClaim.com Boca Raton Bowl Pool vs. Pool
– SERVPRO First Responder Bowl AAC vs. Pool

Preseason Projection | Week 0 | Week 1 | Week 2 | Week 3 | Week 4 | Week 5 | Week 6 | Week 7

Week 7 Mountain West Football Power Rankings

Week 7 Mountain West Football Power Rankings Another week of who is great Contact/Follow @JeremyMauss & @MWCwire Air Force has all the votes Week 7 rankings have Air Force as a unanimous No. 1. Here is how some of our staff voted. My Week 7 Power …

Week 7 Mountain West Football Power Rankings


Another week of who is great


Contact/Follow @JeremyMauss & @MWCwire

Air Force has all the votes

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Week 7 rankings have Air Force as a unanimous No. 1.

Here is how some of our staff voted.

Keep reading to find out.

Air Force at Annapolis: How the Falcons can sink Navy

Air Force at Annapolis: How the Falcons can sink Navy The Battle for the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy Starts in Annapolis Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire Can Air Force win their 4th straight against the Midshipmen? WEEK 8: Air Force Falcons 6-0 …

Air Force at Annapolis: How the Falcons can sink Navy


The Battle for the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy Starts in Annapolis


Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire

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Can Air Force win their 4th straight against the Midshipmen?

WEEK 8: Air Force Falcons 6-0 (4-0) vs. Navy Midshipmen 3-3 (2-2)

WHEN: Saturday, October 21st — 10:00 A.M. MT/ 9:00 A.M. PT

WHERE: Navy-Marine Corp Stadium (Annapolis, MD)

WEATHER: Rain showers early with some sunshine later in the day. High 63F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 50%.

TV: CBS Sports Network
Rich Waltz (play-by-play), Aaron Taylor (analyst), Amanda Guerra (sidelines)

STREAM: FuboTV

RADIO: KVOR AM 740 in Colorado Springs, 104.3 the Fan in Denver, SIRIUS XM 380, SXM 970
Jim Arthur (play-by-play), Jesse Kurtz (analyst)

SERIES RECORD: Air Force leads the series record 33-22

WEBSITES: NavySports.com, the official Wyoming athletics website | GoAirForceFalcons.com, the official Air Force athletics website

GAME NOTES (PDF): Navy | Air Force

SP+ PROJECTION: Air Force by 17.6

FEI PROJECTION: Air Force by 17

PARKER FLEMING PROJECTIONS: Air Force has an 80.67% chance to win (26.18-13.2)

The biggest game of the Air Force season is being played in Annapolis this Saturday. Coincidentally, it’s also the biggest game of the year for Navy as well. Yes, by Sunday, the biggest game of the year for one of these two teams will have changed and involve that Military Academy in New York, but that game has little relevance until Air Force plays Navy.

This is where the battle for the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy begins!

Navy has looked underwhelming more times than not, with an up and down 3-3 start to the year. By some though, three wins at this point in the season may be a tic above expectation. Despite a revolving door of quarterbacks, and generally inconsistent output from their offense, the Mids are still in bowl contention, as well as vying for the all important CiC Trophy.

Navy will likely be relying on a very experienced Senior Tai Lavatai at quarterback on Saturday. He’s been the on and off again starter for what seems the last three seasons. But this is the same guy that last beat Army for Navy, so he’s no stranger to big games. Expect to see Braxton Woodson, the Freshman direct enrollee to see some playing time as well.

The quarterback situation at Air Force got very interesting late in their thrilling win over Wyoming last week. Jensen Jones entered the game when Zac Larrier went down with a knee injury. The offense stumbled at first with the change under center fumbling twice, but settled after under Jones control, masterfully executing an option pitch to the boundary that John Lee Eldridge II took to the house from 70 yards out. Jones also put the game on ice with their last possession, getting tough yards inside converting a first down to put the game on ice.

As if this game needed any additional juice, Navy is going to be honoring All-Time great Roger Staubach with a ceremony at the game. If the Falcons want Staubach’s jersey number adorning the field to be the only cause for celebration for the Mids, they had better come prepared for four quarters of football. Otherwise, Air Force’s stint being ranked, along with their possession of the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy may be abbreviated.

HERE’S HOW AIR FORCE CAN SINK THE MIDS

There is likely to be precipitation at some point during Saturday’s game. Ball security is always critical when you run some version of a time consuming option offense. I know many at Navy contend they have changed from the conventional triple option offense, but ultimately both of these teams have very similar philosophies. They run a lot, and they run very well.

Which brings up the biggest threat that the Falcons need to take inventory of, Alec Tecza. The Navy fullback is in a similar mold to Brad Roberts, minus a career suggesting he’s an all-time great at the program. Yet. Tecza is just a sophomore and has been a game changer with the ball in his hands.

Averaging over 230 yards per game on the ground, 5th best nationally, Navy has a lot of talent in their backfield. The fullbacks are an absolute strength with Daba Fofana and Tecza. The Air Force front seven have got to limit what the Mids backs are able to do on early downs especially.

Another area of the game to pay close attention to is turnovers. In games like this, the impact of a turnover seems to be magnified. Despite some very lopsided losses, Navy is one of the best at creating turnovers, forcing 12 of them. That’s twice as many as Air Force on the season. Neither team has thrown an interception this year, it will be interesting to see how many times the Falcons put the ball in the air with Jones getting his first start. The Falcons need a clean game in Annapolis.

I suspect the biggest deciding factor in this game is going to come through sustainability. The ability to keep drives alive, even if to flip field position, and conversely the ability to get off of the field. Both of these teams feature strong third down defenses. But where Air Force really stands out among the competition is in their ability to convert third downs. They are the best in the country, converting almost 60% of their third downs.

That defensive unit of Brian Knorr’s, not Newberry, is one of the best in the country. They aren’t going to make it easy for Navy to find daylight, a rhythm, conversions or points.

Even if the Navy run defense which allows double (148 yards per game) what the Falcons surrender on the ground, I don’t see it being sustainable. Eventually the dam is going to break from fatigue, as Air Force has shown a much better ability to maintain drives offensively and end them defensively. A slow suffocation.

I realize much of this relies on a quarterback making their first start on a critical stage. But all those diesels in front of Jensen Jones have experience to spare, and the supporting cast in the backfield is as dynamic and deep as any. Ask Wyoming if Jensen Jones can make a play to put you out.

And even if the game does come down to special teams, thankfully for Air Force, they have a dynamic kicker in Mathew Dapore who is perfect on the year.

Air Force Sings Second.

Air Force 20 – Navy 15

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2023 Mountain West Football Week 7 In Five Words

2023 Mountain West Football Week 7 In Five Words A quick synopsis in five words after Week 7 Contact/Follow @JeremyMauss & @MWCwire Week Seven was spicy You know what stinks? Writing an article and thinking it published just fine, then hours later, …

2023 Mountain West Football Week 7 In Five Words


A quick synopsis in five words after Week 7


Contact/Follow @JeremyMauss & @MWCwire

Week Seven was spicy

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You know what stinks? Writing an article and thinking it published just fine, then hours later, POOF!

Here we go again, literally, giving snap judgements and reaction to a very fun weekend for some teams and not so fun for others.

This is the most simple recap out there and at the end some of our Twitter followers who reacted via GIFs.

Air Force: New Years Six Bowl bound

Boise State: Andy Avalos’ butt is hot?

Colorado State: First win ever over Boise

Fresno State: Doesn’t matter who QB is

Hawaii: Gotta hang onto the ball

Nevada: Ken Wilson needs a QB

New Mexico: Lobos can’t have nice things

San Diego State: The defense finally balls out

San Jose State: Kairee Robinson listens to us!

UNLV: Eight win Rebel football team?

Utah State: World’s best dumb football team

Wyoming: Could have used Harrison Waylee

In addition these quips, we asked our readers about how they feel in GIF format after Week 7.

 

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Mountain West Football: Week 7 Winners And Losers

Air Force, UNLV, and Timmy Chang headline the week’s winners and losers in Mountain West football.

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Mountain West Football: Week 7 Winners And Losers


Who came out ahead and who left something to be desired across the Mountain West in Week 7 of the college football season?


Contact/Follow @MattK_FS & @MWCwire

Encouragements and letdowns from the week that was.

Conference play was in full swing on Friday night and Saturday and who knew that college football and spooky season would have so much in common? Six Mountain West clashes begat four results decided by eight or fewer points, leaving just about everyone on the edge of their seats all weekend long.

Who’s living with the horrors in the aftermath, though? Here are the winners and losers from Week 7 of Mountain West football.

Winners

1. Air Force

If any questions existed about whether the Falcons were the class of the Mountain West, they were silenced until further notice on Saturday with a hard-fought 34-27 victory at home against Wyoming.

The Cowboys had been widely considered Air Force’s toughest opponent to date and they did jump out to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter, but after the Falcons went three-and-out on their first possession, they would score on five straight drives and later overcome two fumbles in a row to get their biggest play of the game when they needed it most, a 58-yard John Lee Eldridge III touchdown to give the Falcons a lead they wouldn’t relinquish with about two minutes left in the game.

Now one of only two undefeated teams in Mountain West play, Air Force controls its destiny headed into the first leg of the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy round-robin next Saturday. Perhaps it’s fitting for a team that already plays its home games a mile above sea level, but the sky is now the limit for Troy Calhoun’s cadets.

2. UNLV

For a college athlete, few things must feel better than pasting a bitter rival on their home field. That’s exactly what the Rebels did on Saturday in a 45-27 pasting of the Nevada Wolf Pack, just the second time since 2005 that the program has won back-to-back contests in the Silver State clash.

Though UNLV has made huge strides throughout the season thanks to a deep stable of running backs, Week 7 was Donovyn Lester’s time to shine with touchdown runs of one, 16, and 66 yards on just ten carries. Freshman quarterback Jayden Maiava also had the best overall game of his young career by completing 20-of-25 throws for 257 yards and two touchdowns, while the defense generated three sacks, five three-and-outs and three takeaways. It was a total team effort for the team’s biggest Fremont Cannon victory in nearly two decades, and they aren’t done yet.

3. Colorado State

When Dallin Holker scooped the tip drill into his hands mere inches above the end zone turf to seal the Rams’ stunning 31-30 comeback victory over Boise State, the program’s first-ever win against the Broncos exorcised a wealth of demons.

While the furious fourth-quarter rally deservedly received attention in the aftermath, it took the entire second half to erase deficits of 17-0 and 30-10 and seal the deal. The defense stiffened, forcing two key three-and-outs and limiting the Broncos to 4.3 yards per play after giving up 7.0 YPP in the first two quarters. The offense, meanwhile, came to life and managed 7.2 YPP in the last 30 minutes after wasting three first-half Boise State turnovers.

Does this mean the program has finally turned a corner under head coach Jay Norvell? It’s hard to say, but perhaps they’re learning to play more effectively under pressure since CSU is now 2-1 on the year in games decided by eight or fewer points. Regardless of what happens from here, fans in Fort Collins are going to remember this one for a long time.

Losers

1. Boise State

Then again, you might say the same of the blue and orange faithful for the opposite reason. The two-quarterback gambit didn’t work as effectively as it did against San Jose State in Week 6 because Maddux Madsen and Taylen Green combined to finish 16-of-25 for 140 yards with two interceptions. Ashton Jeanty had another Herculean performance (254 all-purpose yards, three touchdowns), but the Broncos offense doesn’t appear to have any consistently reliable options outside of him and Jonah Dalmas.

The defense, though. After holding Colorado State to five three-and-outs on their first six offensive possessions, they had few answers for Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi down the stretch: He finished the game by completing 11 of his last 17 attempts, including four explosive pass plays totaling 116 yards, and three touchdowns in the last six minutes. It was the latest evidence of something systemic we haven’t seen before in Boise, evidenced by another ten missed tackles (according to Pro Football Focus), and it may not be the kind of thing this coaching staff can solve in time to salvage the 2023 campaign.

2. Hawaii head coach Timmy Chang

Facing a ten-point deficit at your opponent’s 30-yard line with one minute left in the game, do you push for the end zone or settle for three points and hope for a lucky bounce? In Chang’s case, he opted for the latter; while Matthew Shipley was true from 47 yards, Hawaii never got the ball back and suffered a 41-34 at home to San Diego State.

Chang was apologetic about the decision-making during his post-game press conference, but social media reactions were divided about whether he needed to be. Making the decision on second down rather than rolling the dice, especially after quarterback Brayden Schager had completed back-to-back 17- and 21-yard passes, didn’t sit well with many fans, serving as a reminder that the role of head coach can often be a very difficult one.

3. New Mexico defensive coordinator Troy Reffett

It was always going to be a tall order replacing both Rocky Long and the defensive talent that left the program through the transfer portal last off-season, but the Lobos appear to be regressing badly here after a 52-24 shellacking by San Jose State.

The Spartans mustered 10.8 yards per play, the highest average by a New Mexico opponent since 2016, thanks to 15 explosive plays that added up to a whopping 472 yards. Two defensive holding and two pass interference calls didn’t help matters, either, so unless they can find some answers quickly, the bounceback hoped for by UNM supporters may not materialize this fall.

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San Jose State at New Mexico Recap: Spartans Overwhelm Lobos

San Jose State at New Mexico Recap: Spartans Overwhelm Lobos Spartans trail at halftime, respond with 38 unanswered points Follow @JeremyMauss & @MWCwire Kairee Robinson leads Spartans with three rushing touchdowns, four total Sometimes a game like …

San Jose State at New Mexico Recap: Spartans Overwhelm Lobos


Spartans trail at halftime, respond with 38 unanswered points


Follow @JeremyMauss & @MWCwire

Kairee Robinson leads Spartans with three rushing touchdowns, four total


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Sometimes a game like football swings with momentum, and both teams can realize *here* is where the game went in favor of one team or the other. Others, like this game between the Spartans and Lobos, need a couple of quarters to realize one team has it figured out versus the other. 

To begin the game, both teams exchanged punts, then the Lobos got an early field goal, and San Jose State missed a field goal. On the next drive for New Mexico, the Spartans blocked a punt and took it back to the end zone for a 7-3 lead.

Things seemed to settle in from there as both offenses scored touchdowns, as Jacory Croskey-Merritt scored twice – including once on a wildcat trick play – and Kairee Robinson scored once on a 35-yard run, updating the score to 17-14, in favor of the Lobos.

To start the second half, San Jose State took the ball and quarterback Chevan Cordeiro hit Kairee Robinson in the flat for a 55-yard score, leading to a 21-17 score the Spartans would surrender again.

The teams then exchanged punts and penalties – 26 penalties in total for both teams – before Cordeiro hit Nick Nash for a 54-yard strike to extend the San Jose State lead to 28-17. From there, New Mexico went three-and-out on a couple of drives and the Spartans added a field goal, to further their lead to 31-17.

To close out the third quarter, Kairee Robinson scored his third touchdown of the day, on a 19-yard touchdown run through a visibly depleted Lobos defense, and the lead continued for the Spartans, now 38-17.

Opening the 4th quarter, Spartans running back Quali Conley featured a 60-yard pass which set up Kairee Robinson’s fourth touchdown of the day, on a four-yard run up the middle. The score now ballooned up to 45-17.

On their ensuing drive, the Spartans again featured Quali Conley with a 68-yard run, down to the 14-yard line. This time, Conley found the end zone and extended the lead to 52-17.

The Lobos scored a late touchdown, primarily with backups, but by now the damage was done on the scoreboard, with the final score 52-24.

Keys to the Game:

Whatever Head Coach Brent Brennan discussed with the Spartans at halftime, the team seems to have responded with a resounding roar. To put together a performance like San Jose State did, on the road, to take control of this game in the second half, had to leave New Mexico with a sense of wondering what happened and where did it all go wrong.

Final Thoughts: 

San Jose State showed a true comeback spirit when, trailing at halftime, came out to dominate the second half, outscoring New Mexico 38-7. The Spartans continued to pour it on against a New Mexico squad that looked tired, specifically on defense. [lawrence-auto-related count=1 category=1360 tag=16543673]The Lobos can still salvage their season, but it’s going to take a lot to get back in the win column this year. 

Much has been written and said about the caliber of the Spartans’ non-conference schedule earlier this year, but if the team can rally around this year and refocus on a “one game at a time” mentality, this San Jose State squad looks like they can rally for a bowl invite before the season is through.

Player of the Game:

Kairee Robinson ran for three rushing touchdowns and hauled in a fourth from Chevan Cordeiro, pacing the Spartans’ surge in the second half. Overall, Robinson finished with 126 rushing yards, 63 receiving yards and four touchdowns. Averaging more than eight yards a carry seemed to be more than the Lobos could handle, as Robinson was able to turn the corner on a number of plays against a tired Lobos defense.

Next Up:

The Spartans will head home to face Utah State next week, looking for another conference win. The Lobos will stay home and welcome in the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors next Saturday.




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Boise State vs. Colorado State: Game Preview, How to Watch, Odds, Prediction

The CSU Rams welcome the Boise State Broncos to Fort Collins for homecoming. Here’s how CSU can beat the Broncos for the first time ever.

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Boise State vs. Colorado State: Game Preview, How to Watch, Odds, Prediction


The Rams wear Pumpkin to celebrate Ag Day


Contact/Follow @J0shFr3d & @MWCwire

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Can the Rams have an easy one?

WEEK 7: Boise State Broncos (3-3, 2-0 MW) vs Colorado State Rams (2-3, 0-1 MW)

WHEN: Saturday, October 14th — 7:45 p.m. MST / 6:45 p.m. PST

WHERE: Canvas Stadium; Fort Collins, CO (36,500)

WEATHER: Partly Cloudy, 64 degrees at kickoff

TV: Fox Sports 1 (Stream Fox Sports 1 on Fubo and click the link here for a free trial)

RADIO: K99-FM 99.1 / ESPN 1600 AM

SERIES RECORD: This will be the 13th all time matchup between these two schools. Boise won 49-10 in Boise last season.

WEBSITES: BroncoSports.com, the official Boise State athletics website | CSURams.com, the official Colorado State athletics website

GAME NOTES (PDF): Boise StateColorado State

ODDS: Boise -8.5

OVER/UNDER: 60.5

SP+ PROJECTION: Boise State by 12.2

FEI PROJECTION: Boise State by 10.8

PARKER FLEMING PROJECTION: Boise State has a 81.53% win probability (32.78 to 19.31)

Now to the keys to victory for the Rams.

Keys to a colorado state victory

1. Composure

The Rams have been a boom or bust team this year. Sometimes within the same game. In order to earn their first ever win over Boise State, CSU isn’t going to have to stay composed. They can’t get too high or too low. Play the game as it comes to them and they have a chance.

2. Play Smart Defense

The Rams grew frustrated last week and through the kitchen sink at the Aggies. Unfortunately, Utah State seemed to have a perfect answer every time. Against Boise State, the Rams have to keep everything in front of them. Mohamed Kamara is a game time decision and if he can’t go others will have to step up.

3. Take what the defense gives you

Another game time decision in Tory Horton. And again, if Horton can’t go, the offense has to stpe up. The offense for the Rams let them down last week, this week they need to step up. They can’t try too much, but should only take what the defense gives them.

Prediction

It’s homecoming in Fort Collins. The Rams seem to play the Broncos close in Fort Collins, for the most part. This could be the day, but I don’t see the Rams getting their first win over Boise State. CSU will keep it close, but the Broncos will put it out in the end.

Final Score: Boise State 38, Colorado State 31

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Mountain West Week 7 Picks

Mountain West Week 7 Picks A big slate of games this weekend Follow @MWCwire Air Force vs. Wyoming is the big one FRIDAY: Fresno State at Utah State (+6), 8 p.m. ET, TV: CBS Sports Network or stream for free with a FuboTV free trial Jeremy: SU: …

Mountain West Week 7 Picks


A big slate of games this weekend


Follow  @MWCwire

Air Force vs. Wyoming is the big one

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FRIDAY: Fresno State at Utah State (+6), 8 p.m. ET, TV: CBS Sports Network or stream for free with a FuboTV free trial

Jeremy: SU: Fresno State | ATS: Fresno State

TJ: SU: Fresno State | ATS: Utah State

Michael: SU: Fresno State | ATS: Utah State

Sean: SU: Fresno State | ATS: Fresno State

Erik: SU: Fresno State | ATS: Fresno State

Ted: SU: Fresno State | ATS: Fresno State

Andrew: SU: Utah State | ATS: Utah State

Roger: SU: Fresno State | ATS: Fresno State

LaMarr: SU: Fresno State | ATS: Fresno State

Kaycee: SU: Fresno State | ATS: Fresno State

Logan: SU: Utah State | ATS: Utah State

Phil: SU: Fresno State | ATS: Utah State

Josh F: SU: Fresno State | ATS: Fresno State

UNLV at Nevada (+9.5), 5 p.m. ET, TV: Mountain West Network

Jeremy: SU: UNLV | ATS: UNLV

TJ: SU: UNLV | ATS: UNLV

Michael: SU: UNLV | ATS: UNLV

Sean: SU: UNLV | ATS: UNLV

Erik: SU: UNLV | ATS: UNLV

Ted: SU: UNLV | ATS: Nevada

Andrew: SU: UNLV | ATS: Nevada

Roger: SU: UNLV I ATS: UNLV

LaMarr: SU: UNLV | ATS: UNLV

Kaycee: SU: UNLV | ATS: UNLV

Logan: SU: UNLV | ATS: Nevada

Phil: SU: UNLV | ATS: UNLV

Josh F: SU: UNLV | ATS: UNLV

San Jose State at New Mexico (+8), 6 p.m. ET, TV: Mountain West Network

Jeremy: SU: New Mexico | ATS: New Mexico

TJ: SU: San Jose State | ATS: San Jose State

Michael: SU: San Jose State | ATS: San Jose State 

Sean: SU: San Jose State | ATS: San Jose State

Erik: SU: San Jose State | ATS: New Mexico

Ted: SU: New Mexico | ATS: New Mexico

Andrew: SU: New Mexico | ATS: New Mexico

Roger: SU: New Mexico I ATS: New Mexico

LaMarr: SU: San Jose State | ATS: San Jose State

Kaycee: SU: San Jose State | ATS: New Mexico

Logan: SU: SJSU | ATS: New Mexico

Phil: SU: San Jose State | ATS: San Jose State

Josh F: SU: New Mexico I ATS: New Mexico

Wyoming at Air Force (-10.5), 7 p.m. ET, TV: CBS Sports Network or stream for free with a FuboTV free trial

Jeremy: SU: Air Force | ATS: Wyoming

TJ: SU: Wyoming | ATS: Wyoming

Michael: SU: Air Force | ATS: Wyoming

Sean: SU: Wyoming | ATS: Wyoming

Erik: SU: Air Force | ATS: Wyoming

Ted: SU: Air Force | ATS: Wyoming

Andrew: SU: Wyoming | ATS: Wyoming

Roger: Air ForceI ATS Air Force 

LaMarr: SU: Air Force | ATS: Wyoming

Kaycee: SU: Wyoming | ATS: Wyoming

Logan: SU: Air Force | ATS: Wyoming

Phil: SU: Air Force | ATS: Air Force

Josh F: SU: Air Force | ATS: Air Force

Boise State at Colorado State (+7.5), 9:45 p.m. ET, TV: FS1 or stream for free with a FuboTV free trial

Jeremy: SU: Boise State | ATS: Boise State

TJ: SU: Boise State | ATS: Boise State

Michael: SU: Boise State | ATS: Boise State

Sean: SU: Boise State | ATS: Boise State

Erik: SU: Boise State | ATS: Boise State

Ted: SU: Boise State | ATS: Boise State

Andrew: SU: Boise State | ATS: Colorado State

Roger: SU: Boise State I ATS Boise State

LaMarr: SU: Boise State I ATS Boise State

Kaycee: SU: Boise State | ATS: Boise State

Logan: SU: Boise State | ATS: Boise State

Phil: SU: Boise State | ATS: Boise State

Josh F: SU: Colorado State | ATS: Colorado State

San Diego State at Hawaii (+5.5), 11 p.m. ET, TV: CBS Sports Network or stream for free with a FuboTV free trial

Jeremy: SU: San Diego State | ATS: Hawaii

TJ: SU: San Diego State | ATS: San Diego STate

Michael: SU: San Diego State | ATS: Hawaii

Sean: SU: San Diego State | ATS: San Diego State

Erik: SU: San Diego State | ATS: Hawaii

Ted: SU: San Diego State | ATS: Hawaii

Andrew: SU: Hawaii | ATS: Hawaii

Roger: SU: Hawaii I ATS: Hawaii

LaMarr: San Diego State | ATS: San Diego State

Kaycee: SU: San Diego State | ATS: San Diego State

Logan: SU: Hawaii | ATS: Hawaii

Phil: SU: San Diego State | ATS: San Diego State

Josh F: SU: Hawaii I ATS: Hawaii


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