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The Buffs Are Looking for a New Head Coach

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Will CU Come Looking in Colorado Springs for Their Next Coach???

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Unfortunately for all involved, the Karl Dorrell era has come to an abrupt and pre-mature halt in Boulder. After a nice 4-2 start to his tenure in the shortened COVID season of 2020, coach Dorrell’s team won just four games the last two years combined. That includes the current 2022 winless campaign.

With the search for a new leader of their football program under way, there is a bit of chatter that their primary target is just South of the Colorado University Campus, in Colorado Springs.

Not surprising, Troy Calhoun’s name has once again been associated with a power program’s head coaching vacancy. It is even less surprising that it is with CU, as they supposedly courted Calhoun after 2019 when Mel Tucker departed the program. The 16 year Air Force coach wasn’t interested then, which led to the Karl Dorrell era, and circumstances may have the Buffs trying to make yet another appeal to coach Calhoun.

As mentioned, this isn’t the first program to be associated with Troy Calhoun as a suitor. It hasn’t appeared likely though, that he’s been of serious interest to depart the Air Force Academy. So why would he consider it now?

Perhaps there is some appeal to going to a “major” conference. The PAC12 was recently pilfered by the Big Ten, but still holds significant markets with a few marque programs yet. Calhoun has remarked multiple times, the challenges a Military Academy faces competing in a conference (compared to that of Army West Point who competes as an Independent). This can lend to some relief on the recruiting front. Not that a less than stellar recruiting class has impaired Troy Calhoun and the Air Force Academy’s product on the field.

In the Karl Dorrell era, the Buffs ranked 58th (2022), 65th (2021) and 36th (2020) in recruiting classes according to 247Sports.com. Compare that to Air Force who was 127th, 93rd and 113th respectively in those same years. Considering Calhoun’s record as head coach during that span 17-7, which includes a trouncing of Colorado this year along the way to the present 4-1 mark, it’s no wonder Colorado or any number of programs would come calling.

https://t.co/aktW1EnR6p
We love earning bowl bids and playing competitive football, yet the support of our faculty and educational work of the Bolt Brotherhood is what opens doors and opportunities in life. 🛫⚡️

— Troy Calhoun (@CoachTCalhoun) July 1, 2022

At the end of the day, there is a reason Troy Calhoun is still in Colorado Springs. A coach doesn’t accidentally stay somewhere for 16 years, they are wanted. And certainly on some level, that feeling is reciprocated. Calhoun routinely remarks on the privilege it is to prepare tomorrows Military officers, as it remains the primary objective at the Academy. Trading in the pride with that distinction as well as the culture of success that they’ve fostered in Colorado Spring’s would only come at an exchange of significant, if not unthinkable return to Calhoun.

I’m not sure that kind of return exists out there at this point in Troy Calhoun’s career, but only he knows. I certainly don’t anticipate the tradeoff to take the coaching position in Colorado poses anywhere near the appeal it would require to secure the Falcons head coach. That is a pretty daunting rebuild awaiting in Boulder, compare that to what they have cooking in the Springs, and it feels like this “potential candidate” discussion dies on the vine.

 

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Navy Battles Air Force to the End

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Air Force Clears the First Hurdle for the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy

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It wasn’t pretty, but Air Force sends Navy back to Annapolis with an L. The Falcons jumped out to an early 10-0 lead on a big touchdown strike from Haaziq Daniels to David Cormier, and then a field goal from the steady leg of Matthew Dapore on their first two drives. Nothing came easy for Air Force from there as a game Mids defense showed why they feature one of the nations most stout run defenses.

The game itself was a microcosm of Haaziq Daniel’s day. A roller coaster with some fantastic highs and forgettable lows.  Sandwiched between a beautiful touchdown bomb to Cormier and a game winning engineered drive were multiple fumbles and an errant pitch.

Daniels and the offense were resilient though. Brad Roberts delivered another strong performance, saving his best for when they needed it most. Most notably though, the defense played four physical quarters that ultimately helped deliver on a 13-10 victory.

It may have been ugly, but that’s how a lot of the Academy football matchups go. Coming out on the winning end is all that matters in these contests. Singing second means the Falcons are still in the running for their primary objective: a shot at the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy. With this win against Navy, their November 5th game versus Army will present an opportunity to bring that CiC Trophy back to Colorado Springs for the holidays.

 

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Air Force vs. Navy: Game Preview, How to Watch, Odds, Prediction

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It’s Sink Navy Week

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Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire

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Air Force and Navy Kickoff the Battle for the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy

WEEK 5: Navy Midshipmen 1-2 (0-1) vs. Air Force Falcons 3-1 (1-1)

WHEN: Saturday, October 1st — 10:00 AM MT/11:00 AM PT

WHERE: Falcon Stadium (Colorado Springs)

WEATHER: Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 76F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph.

TV: CBS

RADIO: KVOR AM 740 in Colorado Springs, 104.3 the Fan in Denver; SIRIUS 388, SXM App 978

Jim Arthur (play-by-play), Jesse Kurtz (analyst)

SERIES RECORD: Air Force leads the all-time series 32-22. Last Year the Falcons Defeated Midshipmen 23-3.

LAST WEEK: Air Force defeated Nevada 48-20, while Navy beat East Carolina in double Overtime 23-20.

WEBSITES: NavySport.com, the official Navy athletics website | GoAirForceFalcons.com, the official Air Force athletics website

GAME NOTES (PDF): Navy | Air Force

SP+ PROJECTION: Air Force by 19.9

FEI PROJECTION: Air Force by 14.8

PARKER FLEMMING PROJECTION: Air Force win probability 87.90% (38.95-22.80)

It’s Navy week! While Air Force grabbed their first win in Conference play last week, it won’t matter much if they stumble against their rivals from Annapolis. Saturdays game against Navy marks the first of two games that Troy Calhoun’s squad will have to navigate if they want to facilitate the long awaited return of the Commander-in-Chief’s trophy back to Colorado Springs.

With Wyoming in the drivers seat for the Mountain division, there is still a lot of football to be played that could change that landscape. Conversely, should Air Force lose to Navy this week, their season takes a very devastating blow very early, as it would eliminate them from contention for the coveted CiC Trophy. Suffice to say, there is a lot of pressure on Air Force to deliver in Saturday mornings tilt with the Mids.

Navy struggled out of the gates, losing to Delaware from the FCS, before getting pummeled by Memphis in their second game. Week three proved to be the charm though, Navy battled to earn a very nice victory over a tough East Carolina team last week.

Both teams want their respective matchups with Army later in the schedule to be for all the marbles. Unfortunately, one of these teams will be playing for second. Here are a few critical factors that could go a long way in ensuring the Falcons are still in the hunt for the CiC.

We’ll bring the thunder ⚫️⚫️⚫️ pic.twitter.com/BdcvdXxPFM

— Air Force Football (@AF_Football) September 28, 2022

Three Keys to an Air Force Victory

1. DISABLE THE PROP

No different than Army and Air Force, Navy wants to establish an inside run game with the fullback to open up the offense. Of their running backs, three of Navy’s top four ball carriers by yards and carries are all fullbacks. Daba Fofana (2.7), Logan Point (3.3) and Anton Hall (3.4) have a cumulative average of 3.13 yards per carry, with a single touchdown between the three of them.

This is a really important point for the Falcons defense to focus, because the slot-backs and conventional “tail-back” for the Midshipmen are much more effective averaging more than five yards per carry. That said, an inability to get the ball outside can be widely contributed by an ineffective inside run game. If the Air Force front seven can clog up the inside, that Naval ship will struggle mightily to go anywhere.

2. DAMAGE THE HULL

With an offense that has underwhelmed, it’s easy to overlook a Navy defense that has played well most of this young season. The surrendering of 37 points to a very dangerous pass attack of Memphis contributes to some misleading statistics. Entering halftime, the Tigers only led by a single score, 13-7. As offense completely stalled in the second half, Memphis wore down the Navy defense pulling away with 14 fourth quarter points.

Against Delaware the Mids only surrendered 14 points, and it took a very esteemed East Carolina offense two overtimes to reach 20. So it’s not as if the defense hasn’t been doing their part. In fact, surrendering under 70 yards per game on the ground, Brian Newberry’s defense ranks 5th nationally against the run. Taking this a step further, Navy has amassed 22 tackles for loss in just three games. This is good for 20th nationally.

The Falcons have proven over the past few seasons against Navy in particular that they can wear the Mids down. Big runs may not come early and often, but persistence should pay off against a defense that will likely be spending a lot of time on the field. If the front seven from Annapolis wears or relents, the ship will quickly take on water.

3. SINK THE SHIP

We’ve spent a lot of time talking about the big play potential of Air Force. This has been largely in part due to the expectation that Haaziq Daniels could expose a defense that loads the box. Outside of an 80 yard strike to Dane Kinamon early this year, that has not been the case. Ben Brittain actually came in for a quick strike to David Cormier on his first pass attempt last week that went for 80 yards.

Other than these two passes, most of their big plays have come on the ground. And there have been plenty of that variety. If the Falcons start making gains on the ground with any regularity, look out; a big pass may loom. If these splash plays start to rear, it’s only a short time to follow that Navy’s chances at winning will rest sunken and wrecked.

An iconic win for @NavyFB@PhilBergmanTV recaps last night's double overtime victory ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/uUMZ7LSjX0

— Navy Athletics (@NavyAthletics) September 25, 2022

Prediction

Navy head coach, Ken Niumatalolo and his team have taken a lot of heat the past few seasons for underperforming. Aside from a memorable upset of Army last December, there’s not been a lot to celebrate in Annapolis. A win last week against East Carolina may have put some wind in their sails, but they’d need gale force gusts to really reverse fortunes.

For the Mids to return to form, they have got to rediscover an effective run game. We noted the need for an effective inside run game earlier to match the success that their military brethren have largely experienced. One big problem is that Navy doesn’t have an all conference standout like Brad Roberts, or a stable of relentless pounders like Army. Probably more notable, they simply don’t have the horses in front. As hard as it may be to believe, Navy is leagues behind at offensive line, and that is a major reason for their struggles.

Since the loss to Wyoming, Air Force has gone to a heavier three man front on the defensive line, featuring Kalawai’a Pescaia, Christopher Herrera and Payton Zdroik and it’s proven impactful. Consider the return of a starter in Jayden Thiergood and emerging depth from P.J. Ramsey, this front is starting to look formidable. Combine this unit with a loaded linebacker group, and yards will not come easy for Navy.

I expect a first half fist fight on Saturday. But the Falcons will throw more punches, have more endurance and ultimately have much heavier fists for the duration of the bout. The second half of this game might get away from the Midshipmen.

Air Force sings second.

Air Force 31, Navy 13

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The Falcons Crush the Wolf Pack

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Air Force Gets Their First Conference Win of 2022

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It didn’t the Falcons long to get last weeks loss at Wyoming out of their system. Air Force tuned up Nevada in a route Friday night, scoring early and often. Nevada is clearly a team still forming their identity. Troy Calhoun’s squad expected to be competing for a Mountain Division Title, but created a lot of questions after last weeks performance.

Well, what a difference a week makes. With the same key players missing from their lineup this week, Air Force showed no signs of suffering for lack of depth. The run game was in full force, and Ben Brittain tacked on an 80 yard touchdown bomb for good measure.

Coming in hot 🔥🔥🔥@ben2brittain ➡️ @_xDaviid pic.twitter.com/2TUdN7DHwt

— Air Force Football (@AF_Football) September 24, 2022

Matthew Dapore continues to quietly kick as good as anyone in the Conference, hitting from 50+ yet again. A clearly motivated team, Air Force was determined to regain form. Offense, defense and special teams were all contributors in an effort that overwhelmed the Wolf Pack. Back to form, the rushing attack went for 461 as the offense racked up over 500 yards.

With a Conference victory in their bank now, the Falcons turn their attention to Navy. Their rivals from Annapolis come to Colorado Springs on Saturday, October 1st, giving Air Force a full week to recover and prepare. This will mark the first game in the round robin battle with Army and Navy for the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy.

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Air Force vs. Nevada: Game Preview, How to Watch, Odds Prediction

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Can the Falcons Rebound Against the Wolf Pack?

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Cross Division Matchup: the Wolf Pack Come to the Springs

WEEK 4: Nevada Wolf Pack 2-2 (0-0) vs. Air Force Falcons 2-1 (0-1)

WHEN: Friday, September 23rd — 6:00 PM MT/5:00 PM PT

WHERE: Falcon Stadium (Colorado Springs)

WEATHER: Sunny, high of 74 degrees

TV: FS1

RADIO: KVOR AM 740 in Colorado Springs, 104.3 the Fan in Denver; SIRIUS 388, SXM App 978

Jim Arthur (play-by-play), Jesse Kurtz (analyst)

SERIES RECORD: Air Force leads the all-time series 4-2. Last Year the Falcons Defeated Nevada 41-39.

LAST WEEK: Air Force lost to Wyoming 17-14, while Nevada was shut out by Iowa 27-0.

WEBSITES: NevadaWolfPack.com, the official University of Nevada at Reno athletics website | GoAirForceFalcons.com, the official Air Force athletics website

GAME NOTES (PDF): Nevada | Air Force

SP+ PROJECTION: Air Force by 22.2

FEI PROJECTION: (not yet released)

As the Wolf Pack and Falcons head into their Friday night matchup, both teams are coming off of disappointing losses from the prior week. Nevada was disposed of 27-0, by a largely offensively inept Iowa Hawkeyes team. Air Force on the other hand landed on the losing end of a very physical contest with Wyoming.

The major difference in these losses should be obvious though. Despite their offensive woes, Iowa is a team that was expected to beat Nevada. The Falcons however, were heavy favorites against the Cowboys, despite an extended spell of troubles when playing in Laramie. Losing as favorites and losing as underdogs bare the same consequence at the end of the day. Except that losing to a division foe has Air Force in the hole early, in Conference play.

Both teams are going to try and bounce back from week three losses, and record their first Conference wins of the 2022 campaign. If Troy Calhoun’s squad wants to even their Mountain West record, here are a few things that could go a long way in aiding them.

On to Nevada…

Let's take a the brief history of our matchup with the Nevada Wolfpack!https://t.co/elFucl9UOr

— History Of Air Force Football (@HistoryFalcon) September 18, 2022

Three Keys to an Air Force Victory

1. REINFORCE THE TRENCHES

For the first time in a long while, the Air Force offensive line was pretty overwhelmed last week, against Wyoming. Things weren’t much better on the defensive line either. The single most contributing factor to last weeks loss was the Cowboys dominance at the line of scrimmage, on both sides of the ball.

Against Nevada, the Falcons have to get back to form. In particular, in the run game. Despite last weeks dreadful performance on the ground (by Academy Standards), Air Force is still the countries leading rush offense. The offensive line has to put the Conference back on notice, that this is the baddest unit in the league. They need to do so at the expense of the Wolf Pack.

2. BEWARE THE AIR

A balanced offensive attack typically makes for a long day for the Air Force opposition. That still holds true against Nevada, but this is certainly a pass at your own risk game for Haaziq Daniels and the offense.

The Wolf Pack lead the country in takeaways with 11, seven of which have come by way of a ball-hawking secondary. Daniels, nor anyone else on the offense have thrown an interception for the Falcons to date. This would not be the game to break that streak.

The temptation to pass will be there, as Nevada has surrendered 273 yards per game through the air. But Air Force is not a yard amassing pass attack. They have to pick their spots.

3. BE A LINE STEPPER

Charlie Murphy famously described Rick James as a “habitual line stepper”, in Charlie Murphy’s True Hollywood Stories skit, on the Chappelle Show. Well I’m not suggesting the Falcons should accrue a mass of offsides penalties. But they should do their best to make some plays in the Nevada backfield, whenever possible.

Moreover, they must keep the Wolf Pack out of their own backfield. Nevada has accumulated as many sacks (nine) as the Falcons have tackles for loss. In that category, Ken Wilson’s defense has recorded 26 tackles behind the oppositions line of scrimmage to date. Getting behind the sticks is not in Air Force’s best interest.

𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐫 ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/zRyDDG8rQN

— Air Force Football (@AF_Football) September 20, 2022

Prediction

Nevada is going to be an interesting team as the season plays out. They won their first two games to start the year, before laying an egg in a head-scratching loss to Incarnate Word of the FCS. And although a loss to Iowa is generally excusable, those two back-to-back losses haven’t exactly inspired confidence in the Wolf Pack.

This is still no layup though. Nevada is not the pass crazy offense of recent years, they actually pose quite a balanced attack. With a commitment to run the ball, the Pack’s rush yard production on a per game basis (138 yards per game) nearly mirrors exactly what Air Force has surrendered (136 yards per game).

Even more compelling to this narrative, Air Force features the top pass defense in the conference (17th in the Country), whereas the rush defense is sixth (66th in the Country). Those two rankings are typically reversed. A lot of that has to do with the level of ineptitude exhibited in their oppositions passing game the first two weeks, along with some success running the ball against Air Force. Wyoming by contrast seemed to find little resistance throwing the ball when they needed to make a play.

The relenting in the rush defense, which has been historically strong for Air Force has aided in the misleading passing statistics. In fact, Wyoming exposed what to this point in the season appears to be a bit of an unknown, in the Falcons defensive line. They are going to have to be more stout upfront to stop a physical running tandem of Toa Taua and Devonte Lee. It appears that quarterback Nate Cox will return to the lineup as well, after playing just one snap against Iowa, due to injury. He too is a capable runner.

I know this seems like a lot of buildup, to ultimately land where a vast majority of games that Air Force plays, will be decided; On the (flat) backs of their offensive line. Their underwhelming performance against Wyoming was certainly the anomaly, not the norm. This unit has earned that benefit of the doubt, with their consistently strong performances over the years. They should be able to do a better job handling Nevada’s front, even with a stalwart on the line in Dom Peterson. Frankly, I expect them to be downright nasty after last weeks display.

Air Force 38, Nevada 24

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Wyoming Defeats Air Force 17-14

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Plenty to Evaluate After a Difficult Loss in Laramie

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Sometimes a play or two decides a game. And sometimes despite a close score, one team simply outplays the other. Tonight was more of the ladder. Air Force entered tonight’s contest in Wyoming as pretty heavy favorites, despite a history of struggles in Laramie.

The Falcons couldn’t reverse fortune to escape with a road victory against the Cowboys, yet again. The Pokes dominated the line of scrimmage in a way that Air Force, and the ‘Diesels’ in particular are not used to seeing. The run game struggled most of the night, having entered the game averaging over 500 yards per game on the ground. They finished with 171 rush yards. Nine less than Wyoming.

Air Force didn’t commit a turnover or a penalty all game. Despite that, they still lost the game. Pretty telling for anyone who observed the game as it played out. Wyoming went to heavy offensive fronts in pivotal moments, and time and again had their way with a Falcon defensive front that didn’t commit nearly enough bodies near the line of scrimmage.

This is a game that has plenty of blame to go around. But in the end, the Pokes were simply better, and in essentially every facet of the game. Air Force has been getting a lot of attention as Conference contenders. We can pump the breaks on those discussions for a bit, as they find themselves in the hole early, in conference play (0-1).

The Falcons will try and get on the right side of the win column next week, in another Friday night game. Nevada rolls into the Springs for a Conference clash, with a 6 P.M. local kickoff.

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Air Force vs. Wyoming: Game Preview, How to Watch, Odds Prediction

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Can the Falcons End Their Three Game Losing Streak in Laramie?

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Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire

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Mountain Division Rivals: Falcons and Pokes

WEEK 3: Wyoming Cowboys (2-1) vs. Air Force Falcons (2-0)

WHEN: Friday, September 16th — 6:00 PM MT/5:00 PM PT

WHERE: War Memorial Stadium (Laramie, WY)

WEATHER: Chance of rain, high of 69 degrees

TV: CBS Sports Network

STREAMING: With FuboTV, you can get a free seven-day trial which includes CBS.

RADIO: KVOR AM 740 in Colorado Springs, 104.3 the Fan in Denver; SIRIUS 388, SXM App 978

Jim Arthur (play-by-play), Jesse Kurtz (analyst)

SERIES RECORD: Air Force leads the all-time series 30-26 (3 ties). Last Year the Falcons Defeated Wyoming 24-14.

LAST WEEK: Air Force beat Colorado 41-10, while Wyoming defeated Northern Colorado 33-10.

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

GAME NOTES (PDF): Wyoming | Air Force

SP+ PROJECTION: Air Force by 18.8

FEI PROJECTION: Air Force by 15.6

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Week three of the College Football season marks the start of Mountain Division play for both Wyoming and Air Force. After a rocky start to the year against Illinois, the Cowboys have since won consecutive games. Opposite them, the Falcons are fresh off another win over a PAC12 opponent, after slaughtering Colorado last week 41-10.

Both teams look to have things headed in the right direction, but neither are without flaws. Despite two big wins, Air Force has been coughing the ball up at an alarming rate. Wyoming on the other-hand is trying to get their footing on offense, specifically with a balanced passing game. If you look at the numbers, they certainly are trending in the right direction. Yes, competition may have something to do with it, facing an FCS opponent last week. But overall, the Pokes should encouraged with the improved offensive and defensive performances week over week.

The teams from Laramie are never an easy out for Air Force. Between the Cowboys momentum and turnover concerns with the Falcons, Troy Calhoun’s squad had better buckle their chin-straps and protect the ball as they head North to take on Wyoming.

The @MountainWest 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤‼️ pic.twitter.com/8C5NUufskh

— Air Force Football (@AF_Football) September 12, 2022

Three Keys to an Air Force Victory

1. Protect the rock

It goes without saying, teams should always avoid turning the ball over. But in a game where both teams want to run the ball and reduce possessions for their opponent, it really is magnified. Oh, and the fact that Air Force has already lost five fumbles in just two games suggests there is merit to this emphasis.

Wyoming has given the ball away four times this season too, three of which have been fumbles. So both teams have shown a propensity to get loose with the ball, and neither want to continue that trend.

If either team gets too generous with turnovers, it will lead to their ultimate demise. The Falcons can’t count on another anomaly of a game which saw them give the ball away three times and still hammer their opponent by 30 points, as they did last week.

2. rewind to 2020 andrew peasley

Not to open an old wound, but let’s not forget that part of last seasons implosion against Utah State wasn’t just another Logan Bonner led attack. Actually, Andrew Peasley gutted the Air Force defense primarily with his arm, but also did damage with his legs.

When the dust settled on the game that ultimately cost Air Force a trip to the Conference Championship; Peasley completed 67% of his passes for 195 yards, and three touchdowns. He was completing passes at nearly 20 yards a clip. He also chipped in 29  yards on the ground. This can’t happen again.

Instead, the Falcons need a repeat 2020 Peasley performance. This game saw Air Force pick off the now Wyoming quarterback twice, and sack him two times as well. His eight yards per completion were much more modest also.

3. find balance

Air Force will never get confused with being part of college football’s current pass crazy regime. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a key installment to their gameplan. Last week saw Haaziq Daniels complete just one pass on five attempts. They didn’t exactly need to open up the pass game, and when they did, the weather certainly didn’t help.

This week may prove to be a little different. Wyoming doesn’t usually yield yards easily on the ground, and everyone knows that is where the Falcons make hay. The passing game proved to be a key to their victory in 2021, as the lone touchdown for Air Force game on the arm of Daniels.

The Falcon quarterback finished the game averaging 11 yards per attempt, completing 70% of those passes for 110 yards and a touchdown. Those aren’t air raid numbers, but they do reflect the added element to their game that poses a threat to a defense that wants to commit eight defenders to stopping the run. Getting Kinamon, Patterson and crew involved will go a long way to opening up the run game.

𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/OhTasUiRmR

— Air Force Football (@AF_Football) September 11, 2022

Prediction

Even in “down years”, Wyoming is a team that I always dignify as an opponent that can beat the Falcons. I think my insecurities will always be deeply seeded in that 2014 loss, which Colby Kirkegaard led the Pokes past an eventual 10 win Air Force squad. That was a very good team that Troy Calhoun had, and they were one of only three FBS teams that Wyoming beat that year.

We are eight years removed from that stumble, and it’s not as if Air Force hasn’t experienced success in recent years. They’ve won the last two matchups. As the series goes, they have split the last six, so these two have a pretty good volley going overall.

Turnovers are really going to be an interesting factor in this years tilt. We touched on the fumbles earlier, but the counter to that would be how the Air Force defense has five takeaways of it’s own already. Camby Goff has had a great start to the year, picking off a pass in each game thus far to compliment the teams three fumble recoveries. Wyoming has forced four turnovers of their own through three games, but are -1 in turnover margin (Air Force is even).

As much commentary as I’ve placed on the running backs turning the ball over, I received some great perspective from my friend and fellow Air Force contributor @NittanyFalcon with the mwcconnection.com; he pointed out a majority of these fumbles came from depth players. Which is a fair point. You have to hope that as games get tighter and starters are playing well through the third quarter in games, these types of sloppy plays will clean themselves up. Just so long as Easton Gibbs doesn’t pull a Justin Rice type performance, circa 2021 Utah State. Better to occur against an FCS opponent, than in the throes of Mountain West divisional play.

So with less concern around the turnovers, the other critical factor is how the play of quarterback Andrew Peasley will translate this year. He’s an athletic guy whose proven inconsistent in the pass game thus far. He’s not surrounded by NFL recievers or Blake Anderson’s offense any longer, so the Air Force defense could make things quite difficult for the signal caller.

I expect a competitive game to the very end. But the Air Force defense has matched the offenses play so far, and that offense is relentless. Yards wont come easy against this stiff run defense, but the Falcons have the playmakers to put enough points on the board to topple the Pokes at their own altitude.

The losing streak at Laramie ends Friday.

Air Force 27, Wyoming 16

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Air Force vs. Colorado: Game Preview, How to Watch, Odds Prediction

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Will the heavily favored Falcons dispose of the Buffaloes?

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Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire

What should we expect from the Buffs vs. Falcons?

WEEK 2: Colorado Buffaloes vs. Air Force Falcons

WHEN: Saturday, September 10th — 1:30 PM MT/12:30 PM PT

WHERE: Falcon Stadium; Colorado Springs, CO

WEATHER: Mostly Sunny, high of 67 degrees

TV: CBS

RADIO: KVOR AM 740 in Colorado Springs, CO, 104.3 the Fan in Denver, SXM App 972– Jim Arthur (play-by-play), Jesse Kurtz (analyst)

SERIES RECORD: Air Force 5 Wins- Colorado 12 Wins

WEBSITES: CUBuffs.com, the official Colorado University athletics website | GoAirForceFalcons.com, the official Air Force athletics website

GAME NOTES (PDF): Colorado | Air Force

SP+ PROJECTION: Air Force by 22.3

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For the first time since 1974, the Colorado University Buffaloes will coming back to Falcon Stadium on Saturday. There is a long and unfortunate history that kept these two from playing for an extended period of time, until 2019 when Air Force returned to Boulder to hand Colorado an L in overtime. Nearly 50 years later, the Buff’s are returning to Colorado Springs.

When the first Air Force-Colorado football game I covered as a sports columnist for the Rocky Mountain News occurred in 1974, I didn’t suspect the teams wouldn’t play again at Falcon Stadium for 48 years. https://t.co/KZQrbPRFT5

— Gazette Sports (@CSGazetteSports) September 6, 2022

Colorado will be the first team from a Power Five Conference to visit Falcon stadium since the Aaron Rogers led Cal Bears, back in 2004. Unfortunately for the Buff’s, Aaron Rogers isn’t on their sideline. Fresh off of a very disappointing 38-13 week one loss to TCU, they are looking for answers.

The season is early though, and what better way for Colorado to try and right the ship than with a win over their in-state counterparts. After last weeks stumble, Karl Dorrell’s squad should be anxious to put that performance behind them with a strong outing against Air Force.

On the other side, the Falcons need to build off of last weeks effort. Their opponents this week will be a lot stiffer challenge than last weeks FCS suitor.

Three Keys to an Air Force Victory

1. No handouts

Against an inferior FCS opponent last week, the Falcons lost two fumbles. A potential third fumble was reversed upon review, as it was determined that Emmanuel Michel’s knee was down. These turnovers occurred while the win was all but secured, but turnover are the number one way Colorado could steal a victory against Air Force.

Whether its on offense or special teams, the Falcons have to protect the ball. Coughing up the ball reduces their number of possessions, and that is contrary to Air Force’s modus operandi.

2. Convert third down

Air Force will notoriously try to convert on fourth down. More often than not, they are successful too. However, they converted on third down at a healthy 64% last week, and it would behoove them greatly to sustain that level of success. With the big play production likely to be reduced against Colorado, consistent conversions on third down will be key.

Third down conversions are especially critical to an offense that limits possessions and takes pride in long, time consuming drives. In all likelihood, there will be less big plays and fewer offensive possessions for the Falcons this week. Wearing down the Colorado defense by converting on third down will go along way. Pair that with getting their own defense off the field, and you have a winning combination.

3. no slow starts

Whether on offense, defense or special teams, Air Force needs to execute early. In the first half of last week’s game against Northern Iowa, the Panthers were actually gashing the Falcon defense before stalling out. Uncharacteristically, Air Force was surrendering large chunks of rush yards early.

The offense produced big plays early and never looked back, as the diesels took over the game. But against a much stronger opponent, a leaky defense early could allow the Buff’s to stick around.

In week one, Colorado went into halftime down just one before getting outscored in the second half 31-7. TCU scored just seven points in the first half last week, the Falcons certainly should exceed that on Saturday.

Touchdown no. ✌️ for Dane Kinamon! pic.twitter.com/eHTHAnH2cw

— Air Force Football (@AF_Football) September 3, 2022

Prediction

Karl Dorrell is in his third season at Boulder, and after peaking as a ranked team in the enigma that was the 2020 COVID shortened season, this team has struggled. Colorado really needs a win versus Air Force before heading to Minnesota the following week, and entering their Conference schedule after that. If the Buff’s can’t get it together this week, the season could spiral out of control very early.

If you look at the stat lines, both quarterbacks Brendan Lewis and J.T. Shrout played fine. But you would have to of watched the game to see past the stats. A lot of those numbers were accumulated well after the game was decided. You could say the same about the numbers Northern Iowa put up against Air Force’s defense. I bring this up, because typically it’s a strong passing attack that will give a team their best chance of beating Air Force.

The Falcon’s run defense has been incredibly stingy for years. The pass defense  has continued to improve as well, which is an obvious contributor to their back to back double digit win campaigns. For the Buffaloes to have a shot at returning to Boulder with a win, they will need a stellar passing performance from whoever is under center.

Which brings me to the crux of my conclusion, we’ve not referenced Colorado’s run defense. They were carved up for nearly 300 yards last week, while Air Force racked up almost 600 yards on the ground. The Buffs run defense is not going to be able to stop the Falcons attack. Turnovers and an all-time passing performance by Lewis or Shrout are their best chance.

I’d expect Colorado to stick around in the first half before too many missed assignments against an unrelenting rushing attack leads to their demise. The Falcons have too many playmakers to account for behind one of, if not the best offensive line in the country.

Air Force reminds everyone the top team in Colorado is.

Air Force 34- Colorado 20

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Air Force vs. Northern Iowa: Game Preview, How to Watch, Prediction

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The Falcons get the 2022 season underway against FCS Northern Iowa. Here’s how to tune in and what to watch for against the Panthers.

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Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire

What should we expect from the Falcons?

WEEK 1: Northern Iowa Panthers vs. United States Air Force Academy

WHEN: Saturday, September 3rd — 11:00 AM MT/10:00 AM PT

WHERE: Falcon Stadium; Colorado Springs, CO

WEATHER: Sunny, high of 84 degrees

TV: Altitude

STREAMING: Mountain West Network

The Mountain West Network should also be available for streaming on a handful of smart TV platforms, as well as through the mobile app available on Apple and Android. You can learn more about how to access all of those at this link.

RADIO: KVOR AM 740 in Colorado Springs, CO, 104.3 the Fan in Denver, SXM App 972– Jim Arthur (play-by-play), Jesse Kurtz (analyst)

SERIES RECORD: This is the first meeting between Air Force and Northern Iowa.

WEBSITES: UNIPanthers.com, the official Northern Iowa athletics website | GoAirForceFalcons.com, the official Air Force athletics website

GAME NOTES (PDF): Northern Iowa | Air Force

SP+ PROJECTION: Air Force by 16.8

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The 2022 season gets underway for Air Force with a matchup against a ranked opponent in the Northern Iowa Panthers. Yes, UNI is a FCS ranked opponent, but a ranked opponent nonetheless. With that jest aside, the Panthers will likely be the most formidable opening day FCS game that Troy Calhoun has faced in his 16-year tenure as head coach.

A program most recently noted for their production of 2022 first round NFL Draft pick Trevor Penning, the Panthers are coming off an impressive 2021 campaign that included victories over two top-ten opponents on their way to a playoff berth. They also have the experience of a 22-year head coach in Mark Farley, who has guided the program to 168 career victories. No surprise he is the program’s all-time winningest head coach.

In case you’re wondering, Air Force has never lost to an FCS opponent. This won’t be the normal opening day tune up game, though, so the Falcons had better come prepared.

This is pretty good!!! I think the Wing flaps could be a lil stronger and the “Ca-Caw” could be a bit higher! #LetsRide 🤣 @Broncos @AF_Football https://t.co/SIwV86U5Ul

— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) August 30, 2022

Three Keys to an Air Force Victory

1. START FAST

Northern Iowa isn’t going to care that Air Force hasn’t lost to an FCS opponent. This is a very experienced Panthers team coming to Colorado Springs, so don’t expect them to be shook. They will feature 21 returning starters from last year, of which three are preseason first-team all-Missouri Valley Conference players: Linebacker Spencer Cuvelier, defensive back Benny Sapp III, and kicker Matthew Cook (UNI also landed another six on the second team).

It will serve the Falcons well to start fast on offense, and get stops early on defense. The adage is that “defense travels”, and if 2021 is any indication, Northern Iowa’s should be solid. This is a mature team that Air Force doesn’t want gaining confidence as the game wears on, by keeping it close.

Execute on offense, and with those limited opposing possessions, the defense should be able to help take over. The sooner the two work in harmony, the better.

2. CREATE RHYTHM

Speaking of harmony, that’s really at the core of what Air Force does. Whether it’s the intricacies of the triple option or the interdependence between the offense, defense and special teams, an effective offense will keep the defense rested and more capable of putting pressure on the opposition. When this balance is struck, the Falcons can suffocate you.

3. STAY HEALTHY

If the first two keys to success are met, there is a good likelihood that some of those critical depth players will get meaningful repetitions. This is something that pays dividends throughout the grind of an entire season.

In Air Force’s case, keeping your team healthy, particularly the starting core, is going to be a priority with the Colorado Buffaloes from the Pac-12 coming to town the following week. Taking care of business early against this FCS opponent will help secure Week 2 health, but it will also provide valuable experience throughout the position groups.

We 😍 all those guys! #EverLoyal https://t.co/SzySAdVzXe

— UNI Football (@UNIFootball) August 29, 2022

Prediction

As mentioned, Northern Iowa is very experienced so I wouldn’t expect the stage to be too big for them. However, they are going to be playing against a team that is quite experienced in their own right. And more notably, Air Force is very deep and seasoned on the offensive line, which is really the (Diesel) engine that drives them.

The Panthers are a quality FCS opponent with three all-conference players on their defense. They may be able to keep this game within two scores for a half. Quarterback Theo Day and the offense will have to be at their very best to push it into the fourth quarter. But I expect the Falcon offense to be unrelenting paired with a stout run defense that will slowly overwhelm them as the game wears on. Air Force by 17.

Air Force 31, Northern Iowa 14

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