The Utes face their toughest challenge of the season, traveling to Colorado Springs to play the Air Force Falcons. How will Utah fare against a team in the top half of the conference? Here are four things to look for in this week's game:
Utah stops the option
Air Force runs the triple option to perfection, ranking first in the nation in rushing offense. Despite these gaudy numbers, the Falcons have struggled offensively ever since they lost FB Jared Tew. With Tew out of the lineup, Utah will focus on containing QB Tim Jefferson and HB Asher Allen, and rely on the defensive tackles to take away the FB dive.
Big day on the ground
The Falcons have struggled with the run in conference play, allowing a minimum of 175 yards per contest. The Ute offensive line will take advantage of the smaller Air Force defense, and open huge holes for RB's Matt Asiata and Eddie Wide.
Minimal turnovers
The Utes fumbled the ball 8 times in last season's overtime win against the Falcons. These turnovers killed several drives, and almost cost the Utes the game. Coach Kyle Whittingham has not forgotten about this, and has coached the Utes to secure the football.
Offense opens up the playbook
Given the magnitude of this game, the Utah offense will open things up to prevent the Falcons from putting eight on nine defenders in the box to stop the run. Look for offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick to involve many different receivers in the game plan, and use some "trickeration".
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