Logan, September 13 (Patrika English News): After a tough 44-22 loss to Texas A&M last weekend, Utah State will look to regroup when they host Air Force on Saturday. The Aggies are 1-1 on the season and face a Falcons team that has dominated their recent meetings.
Utah State’s Struggles at Texas A&M
Quarterback Marcel Reed threw for 220 yards and three touchdowns against the Aggies, with wideout Mario Craver hauling in five catches for 114 yards and three scores. However, Utah State managed just 250 total yards compared to Texas A&M’s 554.
The Aggies converted only 2-of-14 third downs (14.2%), rushed for just 78 yards at 2.2 yards per carry, and committed 11 penalties for 72 yards. Texas A&M controlled the line of scrimmage, piling up 235 rushing yards and winning the time of possession battle.
Series History
Air Force leads the all-time series 7-5. The Falcons won last year’s matchup 39-21 in Colorado Springs. Utah State’s longest winning streak in the series is two games, while Air Force’s longest run is three straight victories.
Keys to the Game for Utah State
1. Limit penalties and convert third downs: The Aggies have struggled in this area through two games. Avoiding costly flags and staying out of third-and-long situations will be critical to sustaining drives.
2. Stop the run: Air Force rushed for 267 yards and four touchdowns in their opener against Bucknell. The Falcons were 6-of-9 on third downs, most of them set up by an efficient ground game. Utah State must tighten up defensively after allowing 235 rushing yards at Texas A&M.
3. Establish offensive rhythm: Utah State is averaging 305 total yards per game, but their rushing attack (102.5 yards per game) has yet to click. Building a ground game will help create manageable third downs and allow the passing game to open up.
What to Expect
Utah State showed flashes in their opener against UTEP and will hope home-field advantage in Logan can tilt the matchup against Air Force. Discipline and consistency will be key as the Aggies look to prove they can compete with the Falcons’ physical style.
Score Prediction: Utah State 34, Air Force 21