Air Force football head coach Troy Calhoun, senior wide receiver Cade Harris, and senior defensive lineman Aidan Swartz spoke with the media ahead of their Mountain West Conference opener against Utah State. The game is scheduled for Saturday, September 13, at Merlin Olsen Field at Maverik Stadium in Logan, Utah.
This matchup marks the 13th meeting between Air Force and Utah State overall and the 12th as conference opponents. Air Force currently leads the series 7-5 and holds a 6-5 record in conference play. The Falcons have won five out of seven games at home but are 2-3 when playing on Utah State’s field. Since joining the Mountain West in 1999, Air Force has a record of 14-12 in conference openers, including an even split on the road at 6-6.
In their most recent contest last season, Air Force defeated Utah State 39-21 at Falcon Stadium to begin Mountain West play. That win ended a five-game losing streak in conference openers for the Falcons. Emmanuel Michel scored three touchdowns during that game, while Zac Larrier contributed with a rushing touchdown and completed three out of four passes for 84 yards. The defense played a significant role by forcing turnovers early and holding Utah State to just 54 rushing yards on 26 carries. Alec Mock led the defense with 11 tackles and two sacks.
The previous meeting in Logan saw Utah State come out on top with a score of 34-27 on October 8, 2022. Brad Roberts rushed for 136 yards and scored one touchdown for Air Force during that game. TD Blackmon led the defense with career highs of twelve tackles and three tackles for loss.
Both teams will look to start their conference schedule strong as they meet again this weekend.
