LARAMIE, WY — The Air Force Falcons are entering their annual showdown with the Wyoming Cowboys as a markedly stronger, more veteran‑laden unit. After a rough 2025 season in which the defense surrendered 40 points per game and nearly 500 yards to opponents, the Falcons have cut that allowance to just 19.7 points per game this year.
Defensive turnaround
Senior linebacker Blake Fletcher leads the charge with a team‑high 63 tackles, matching his production from last fall while helping the unit climb to No. 24 nationally in pass defense. The secondary now yields only 172.3 passing yards per game, a sharp drop from the previous year’s 323 yards. Rushing defense has improved as well, falling from an average of 174 yards allowed to 123.4 yards, ranking 43rd among 138 FBS programs.
“Blake Fletcher is a very good linebacker who stays disciplined and makes plays,” head coach Troy Calhoun said at his weekly press conference. “Our defense is a year older, wiser, bigger and faster, and that shows on the field.”
Offensive consistency
While the defense has been the headline, the offense continues to dominate the ground game. The Falcons rank No. 2 nationally in rushing, amassing 869 yards on 129 carries over the last two outings—an average of 6.7 yards per rush. Backup quarterback Evan Medders, thrust into the starting role after starter Liam Szarka’s season‑ending injury, has not fumbled in 380 rushing attempts and maintains a plus‑3 turnover margin.
“Medders can throw the ball well, but our game plan emphasizes the run,” said defensive coordinator, who noted that the Falcons have only 10 passing attempts all season, three of which came in Medders’ two starts. “He’s a dangerous athlete who gets the ball every snap, and that keeps defenses honest.”
Key players to watch
- Blake Fletcher (LB) – 63 tackles, 2 interceptions, 1 forced fumble.
- Evan Medders (QB) – 5‑10 passing, 65 yards, 1 TD; 52 rushes for 375 yards and 6 rushing TDs.
- Owen Allen (RB) – 75 carries for 334 yards and 3 touchdowns.
- Rocco Conti (RB) – 51 carries for 318 yards, 2 touchdowns, plus 2 receptions.
- Dallas Daley (LB) – 39 tackles, 1 sack.
Game details
The matchup kicks off Friday night at 7 p.m. inside War Memorial Stadium and will be televised on The CW. The Cowboys (4‑3, 3‑1) will look to bounce back after a recent loss, while the Falcons (5‑1, 3‑1) aim to extend their winning streak and showcase the defensive improvements that have become a hallmark of Calhoun’s program.
Both coaches emphasized ball security in the lead‑up to the game. “First and foremost, we focus on protecting the football,” Calhoun reiterated. “When we win the battle for the ball, the rest falls into place.”
Season outlook
Air Force sits near the top of the Mountain West standings and remains a contender for a conference championship. With a defense that now ranks among the nation’s best and an offense that continues to pound the ground, the Falcons are positioned to make a deep postseason run.
Fans can follow live updates on the team’s official website and local sports radio. The rivalry game promises high‑energy football, a showcase of disciplined defense, and a chance for the Falcons to cement their resurgence under Coach Calhoun’s seasoned leadership.
Original reporting: K2 Radio (Casper) — read the source article.
