AIR FORCE ACADEMY — Once again, Air Force’s season has reached the point where the rest of the Mountain West Conference is wondering how coach Troy Calhoun and the Falcons are doing it.
With Saturday night’s 38-17 victory over Colorado State, Calhoun’s record in two seasons reached 17-6. The Falcons pulled to 5-1 in the conference with games remaining against BYU and TCU.
Calhoun revealed the secret after the Falcons won their fifth straight.
“Team chemistry for us is gigantic,” Calhoun said. “It’s bigger than anywhere I’ve ever been. It’s paramount for us. We don’t have a player that’s a superstar, a sensational all-world candidate, that’s just us. I won’t say it’s the only way, but it probably is the best way for us to have success.”
Air Force took CSU’s best shot for a half and went into intermission with a four-point lead after the Rams had put together a 16-play, 76-yard drive. In the series, the Rams converted three third downs and were going for it on fourth down, 1 yard away from the goal line. But a delay of game penalty brought kicker Jason Smith out for a field goal.
Air Force’s chemistry proved decisive in the running game, which totaled 284 yards. Tailback Asher Clark rushed for 136 yards and two touchdowns; fullback Todd Newell gained 60 yards; and fullback Jared Tew added 50. Tailback Kyle Lumpkin scored his first career touchdown.
Quarterback Tim Jefferson’s six passes went to five receivers.
Trusty trio.
The Falcons had a Big Three on defense, with linebacker Ken Lamendola, cornerback Reggie Rembert and safety Chris Thomas each collecting 10 tackles. Lamendola and Rembert had interceptions.
Linebackers Justin Moore and Hunter Altman each had a sack.
Injuries.
Safety Luke Yeager (shoulder strain), linebacker Patrick Hennessey (shoulder strain), fullback Todd Newell (ankle sprain) and safety Chris Thomas (ankle sprain) will be evaluated this week for Saturday’s game against BYU.
Irv Moss, The Denver Post
