Denver Post staff writer Irv Moss offers an overview of Air Force football, with camp starting Monday.
Three things to watch
1. How good will the offensive line be? A team strength a year ago, the Falcons need newcomers to the starting lineup — such as sophomores Nick Jackson and Jordan Eason at guard and Jason Kons at tackle — to make enough progress in fall camp to keep the triple-option humming.
2. Can senior punter Keil Bartholomew fill the shoes of Brandon Geyer? Geyer’s 43-yard average a year ago was a major asset for the Falcons, who often play a field-position game. Bartholomew now steps into the role.
3. How will a new-look linebacking corps fare? Part of the answer depends on seniors Ken Lamendola and Patrick Hennessey and sophomore Alex Means recovering from injury-plagued seasons a year ago. The three need a strong fall camp to prove they’re ready.
Five players who could make a move
CB Anthony Wright, 5-10, 190, Jr.
Expectations are high for a player who was among the best in the MWC a year ago, with seven interceptions and 54 total tackles.
CB Reggie Rembert, 5-8, 175, Sr.
Rembert has the tenacious attitude you want in a defender, and after an up-and-down career, he wants to go out on top. He recorded three interceptions a year ago and adds spark to kick returns.
QB Connor Dietz, 6-0, 185, Jr.
Saw action last year when Tim Jefferson was injured and will be pushing for a starting assignment during preseason practice. Needs to improve his accuracy, which was 47.4 percent a year ago.
LB Wale Lawal, 6-3, 215, So.
When injuries hit the linebacker ranks last fall, Lawal was rushed into service as a freshman. He started four games. He needs to build on that unexpected opportunity.
WR Jonathan Warzeka, 5-9, 175, Jr.Showed signs of being one of Air Force’s most dangerous offensive weapons a year ago but needs more consistency.
Key dates
Monday: First practice, 8:30 a.m. (practices open to public)
Tuesday: 8:30 a.m.
Wednesday: 2:45 p.m.
Thursday: 3:45 p.m., classes begin
(Remainder of schedule to be determined.)
