Victor Chi
Updated on: October 8, 2024 3:54 pm GMT
Air Force Falcons football aims to rebound from a challenging opener as they prepare to face San Jose State on Saturday. After a 21-6 victory against Merrimack on August 31 at Falcon Stadium, Coach Troy Calhoun emphasizes the need for sustained improvement as the team transitions into Mountain West Conference play.
Initial Performance Review
The Falcons’ performance in their opener was marked by a lack of offensive efficiency, averaging only 3 yards per carry and gaining 166 rushing yards against the Warriors, an FCS team. This lackluster output placed Air Force among the bottom tier of offensive production in the Mountain West, trailing only Colorado State and Wyoming, who faced tougher competition.
With 16 players making their first starts, including quarterback John Busha, the team demonstrated both promise and areas requiring immediate attention. The pressure of debuting in a competitive atmosphere is high for any player, but especially for those who have made significant transitions, like Busha, who noted that the lessons gained in their first game will only enhance their performance moving forward.
Lessons Learned
Senior guard Michael McAninch reflected on the potential for team cohesion as they build off their first game experiences. “Maybe there might be a bit of jelling that could happen, I guess,” he said. His participation after limited action in previous seasons underscores the importance of experience and adaptation within the team dynamics.
With the defense showing commendable performance by limiting Merrimack’s offensive capabilities, the Falcons may now look to balance out their play. Coach Calhoun emphasized that while their last performance didn’t expose their defense to much strain, future games will not be as forgiving, indicating the pressing need for the offense to enhance its productivity to relieve pressure on the defense.
Looking Ahead to San Jose State
This Saturday’s matchup against San Jose State presents an opportunity for the Falcons to improve on their previous efforts. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. at Falcon Stadium. Calhoun is particularly focused on the fact that improvement cannot be rushed; it will unfold “inch by inch.”
Trey Williams, a cornerback with firsthand experience in a demanding collegiate season, emphasized the importance of understanding the physical and psychological aspects of the game. As the weeks progress, he noted that the pace of the season will become more intensive, requiring players to manage their experiences efficiently. The learning curve extends beyond tactical execution, encompassing the grit required to compete at a high level.
A Focused Mindset
Calhoun’s approach underscores a commitment to gradual improvement rather than expecting immediate success. “That’s not real,” he stated regarding the notion of quick fixes. Each practice and game serves as a vital building block that can pave the way for future successes.
Air Force’s unique playing style, deeply rooted in running the football effectively and controlling the clock, requires all units to function in synchronization. As such, enhancing the running game will not only assist the offense in making headway but will also bolster the team’s overall strategy of complementary football.
Final Preparations
The team’s preparations for Saturday will be crucial as they refine their strategies and gel as a unit. Coach Calhoun remains optimistic that the collective experiences from the opener will provide a conducive foundation for a stronger performance against San Jose State.
While the Falcons strive to elevate their gameplay, fans and analysts alike will keep a close watch on their ability to leverage the learning opportunities provided by their inaugural match. Armed with newfound knowledge and determination, Air Force hopes to generate a more dynamic offensive output, setting the stage for a successful run in the Mountain West Conference.
As the Falcons step onto the field, they are focused on working together and getting better as a team. They are ready to face the challenges that their opponents will bring.
