AIR FORCE ACADEMY — Air Force quarterback Tim Jefferson left Saturday’s game against New Mexico with a broken nose that sidelined him for the last four minutes of the first half and the entire second half.
Jefferson said after Monday’s practice that he could have returned to the game and feels capable of playing Thursday night against UNLV in Air Force’s final regular-season game of the season.
“They told me my nose was deformed a little bit, and when I got to the locker room, I saw it,” Jefferson said. “They reset it, and I was fine. I don’t remember how it happened. I just remember opening my eyes and seeing blood going everywhere.”
Jefferson and reserve quarterback Connor Dietz shared practice time Monday. Coach Troy Calhoun said today’s practice would go a long way in determining whether Jefferson will be ready to start.
Calhoun said he was comfortable with Dietz if Jefferson can’t go.
“He ran well and made good decisions,” Calhoun said of Dietz. “His two incompletions, one was a spike and the other was a catchable ball in the flat.”
Dietz was 5-for-7 passing for 67 yards and a touchdown.
Dietz was back at his usual job Monday as the Falcons practiced in brisk, chilly weather.
“We haven’t talked much about the plan for Thursday,” Dietz said. “T.J. is feeling pretty good, so I’m sure he’ll be going out on the field. I’m taking reps in practice as if I’m the starter. You have to prepare like that and be ready on moment’s notice.”
Calhoun said receiver Jonathan Warzeka is doubtful for Thursday night’s game with a head injury. A decision on receiver Zack Kauth (knee) may wait until game time.
Irv Moss: 303-954-1296 or imoss@denverpost.com
