Air Force at CSU: Three things to watch, and more

AIR FORCE AT COLORADO STATE: THREE THINGS TO WATCH

1. Start well

The Falcons got off to a slow start against Texas Christian and lost. Playing a second road game in four days won't be easy, but Air Force can't put itself in a hole early.

2. Play big

Having Mike McLain available will help the Falcons down low. Air Force will have to compete hard against a Rams team that does pretty well on the offensive boards. 

3. Get easy baskets

The Rams turn the ball over 15.7 times per game, which ranks 264th in Division I. The Falcons don't get many steals, but this might be an opponent to get aggressive against.

MCLAIN OK

Center Mike McLain, who was elbowed in the head and missed the final 5:54 of Wednesday’s loss at Texas Christian, should be able to play Saturday for Air Force at Colorado State.

McLain has started all 14 games this season. A school spokesman said he practiced today before the team headed to Fort Collins. McLain averages 6.9 points per game and is second on the team with 55 rebounds.

The Falcons will be without forward Grant Parker (groin), center Sammy Schafer (concussion) and forward Taylor Stewart (wrist). Guard Avery Merriex (concussion, broken nose), who hasn’t played since Dec. 29, should be available to play at CSU.