BYU vs Air Force has long been a tale of two philosophies: passing vs. running. The Falcons are about the last vestige of the once popular veer option offense. They still run that with military precision and copious chop-blocking. (for more on chop blocks see Gooch) http://deepshadesofblue.com/keeping-your-feet-against-the-air-force-cut-blocks/

Offense:

The Falcon offense throws for a lowly 85 yards per game, but chews up 275 on the ground. They do this behind a veteran O-line. Newcomer Asher Clark broke loose for 136 yards last week against Colorado State! Although QB Tim Jefferson doesn’t throw much, when he does, he can produce big plays. Last week he was 6 of 8 for 171 yards. The secondary needs to be careful not to bite too hard on the run and get caught watching the play from behind. The Falcon offense utilizes speed & discipline with a healthy mix of misdirection and play action passing.

Defense:

Air Force typically has run a 3-4 defense this year, similar to the Cougars but with more blitzing. Air Force has limited opposing offenses to 136 on the ground and 167 through the air. However, good offenses have been able to exploit them this year and BYU’s offense is probably the league’s best.

In Addition:

Air Force averages 361 yards per game on offense while the Cougars average 451. The Cougs also average 36.2 points per game vs the Falcons 28.6. BYU also has seemed to have the Falcon’s number in recent years and has historically played the wishbone as well as anybody. The Falcons have lost 9 straight to ranked opponents.

Keys to the Game:

The Key to stopping the option is to stop the Fullback. If the Cougars can do this successfully, then the Falcons will have a long day. But if they let them get 4 or 5 yards each carry then the Cougars will be hard pressed to stop the Cadets. As far as Air Force Defense goes, they will just have to pick their poison. If they try to stop Harvey and Pitta, they will leave the nations top WR in single coverage. If they double Collie, then Unga and Pitta could have big days. Unga’s health is also a question, although a small one I bet the Cougars won’t publicly talk much about to keep the Falcons a little uneasy. If Harvey is unable to go, BYU could become easier to defend.

The Guru’s Guess: BYU 38 – AF 24

Nov 13th by Jim