Key returner: QB Shaun Carney, senior
Carney brings leadership to a Falcon program that is going through its first head-coaching change since 1984. New coach Troy Calhoun brings a playbook with more passing plays for a quarterback who has at times shown his arm can match his legs.
Key loss: head coach Fisher DeBerry
The retirement of 23-year head coach Fisher DeBerry could have a profound effect on the Air Force football program. If the team embraces Calhoun’s offensive system it could thrive. However, current players were recruited for DeBerry’s option attack and not Calhoun’s pass-friendly scheme.
X-factor: LB Drew Fowler, senior
Fowler is the biggest force on a Falcon defense that is being overhauled by new defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter. The senior linebacker has been tabbed as a preseason All-MWC first-team defense selection. His play will help the Falcons attempt to halt Mountain West opponents.
Toughest game: at Notre Dame (Nov. 10)
The Falcons have their work cut out for them in early November when they visit the Fighting Irish. Winter in South Bend is not easy for any team. This should be the most difficult game for Air Force on a schedule that also features road games against Utah and BYU.
Cupcake game: vs. South Carolina State (Sept. 1)
Calhoun and the Falcons catch an early-season break with South Carolina State coming to Colorado Springs. Opening the season with a win should help the Falcons’ confidence heading into their conference opener at Utah on Sept. 8.
Season Outlook:
It is transition time in Colorado Springs. With a new head coach and a new offensive system, Air Force has a lot to be optimistic about. However, the learning curve will dictate how quickly the Falcons get on track. A .500 season might be good enough considering all the change. The conference schedule is brutal-Air Force will face Utah, BYU and TCU, the conference’s three biggest powers, in its first three conference games. Starting conference play 0-3 will not help the team’s confidence. Anything more then six wins might be asking too much.