Clean Slate in MW, So Far; Now, Air Force

Let’s see, first our star running back limps off with a sore ankle. Then our steady QB is hit with a knee injury that is serious. One of our best defensive linemen suffers an even worse leg injury. Another RB gets hurt. You are not going to win this game, right? That’s not our Aztecs. They overcame these odds and beat Nevada, 31-14, to wind up MW Conference play 8-0.

The formula was familiar. Four scores in five trips to the Red Zone; but this time with Redshirt Freshman QB Christian Chapman at the controls most of the game. Four sacks by the defense, plus three turnovers. Two backs, including quick-healing DJ Pumphrey, ran for more than 100 yards. QBs throwing no INTs for the ninth straight game.

Now the challenge is Saturday’s playoff game with Air Force. Fortunately, it will be played right here in Aztec Warrior Stadium (known to some as the Q) at 4:30. Every Aztec fan within range had sure better be there for this one!

The Falcons are a good football team, finishing 8-4. Two of their losses were to ranked teams – Michigan State, 35-21; and Navy, 33-11. Their two MW losses were unexpected: Colorado State, 38-23; New Mexico, 47-35. Impressive wins were over Boise State and Utah State.

As always, their modified triple option offense relies on the running game. They have run for 3,882 yards, with 11 backs who have run for at least 100 yards so far. Compare that with the Aztecs’ good run-oriented offense, with 2,028. This year, Air Force also has taken to the air successfully when needed as a sort of secret weapon, so watch out!  

The betting lines show the Aztecs as 6.5-point favorites, but don’t count on it. You’ve gotta win the game on the field.

Aztec QB Christian Chapman; the Aztec D forced 3 turnovers vs. Nevada (photos by Ernie Anderson)

GO AZTECS!