Air Force preview: Game-by-game breakdown

Sept. 3 vs. South Dakota, noon

Yes, South Dakota beat Minnesota last year. No, the Falcons should not have much problem beating the Coyotes. South Dakota could put up a stronger fight than some of the other FCS opponents the Falcons have played, however.

Sept. 10 vs. TCU, 1:30 p.m.

This should be a fantastic football game. Nobody will be surprised if TCU is very good by the end of the season, but they lost eight offensive starters and five defensive starters. Air Force could be catching the Horned Frogs at the right time.

Sept. 24 vs. Tennessee State, 1 p.m.

Tennessee State went 3-8 last season and lost its last six games. Should be an easy tuneup for the Falcons before Navy.

Oct. 1 at Navy, 10 a.m.

Air Force broke a seven-game losing streak to Navy, but that doesn’t mean a new streak will start. The Falcons had to grind out a 14-6 win against the Midshipmen last year, and this one is in Annapolis.

Oct. 8 at Notre Dame, 1:30 p.m.

Notre Dame finished last season with wins over Utah, Army, USC and Miami. If the Fighting Irish can build on that finish, this will be a difficult test for the Falcons.

Oct. 13 vs. San Diego State, 6 p.m.

The Thursday night turnaround is tough for both teams, but the home team has a small edge in those situations. The Aztecs have a good team returning, and beat Air Force last year.

Oct. 22 at Boise State, 1:30 p.m.

Air Force has a tough schedule, but this could be the toughest game on the slate. The Falcons’ secondary will be tested by Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore.

Oct. 29 at New Mexico, noon

New Mexico is 2-22 over the past two seasons. Even at the end of a long, grueling month, Air Force shouldn’t lose this road game.

Nov. 5 vs. Army, 1:30 p.m.

There’s still a gap between Army and Air Force, even though Army has improved. The Falcons won 42-22 at Army last year.

Nov. 12 vs. Wyoming, noon

Wyoming typically plays Air Force close, and the Cowboys did so last year in Laramie. Wyoming could be improved if it finds a capable quarterback.

Nov. 19 vs. UNLV, 4 p.m.

UNLV is a young team that will need some time before it’s competitive in the Mountain West. But perhaps by late November, the Rebels will be dangerous.

Nov. 26 at Colorado State, 4 p.m.

This is a tricky game for the Falcons. Colorado State, with sophomore quarterback Pete Thomas, should be better. Weather could be a factor. Don’t just assume a win for Air Force here.