Air Force's offense is built around the triple-option, with QB Liam Szarka as the focal point. He led the MWC in rushing TDs last season and has shown the ability to throw for 200+ yards. Against Duquesne's likely overmatched defense, expect a heavy dose of Szarka and FB Owen Allen to control the clock and wear down the opponent.

Air Force returns almost its entire back eight on defense, including All-MWC LB Blake Fletcher and safety Roger Jones Jr. This experienced unit should be able to handle Duquesne's passing game, especially with corners Mikhail Seiken and Korey Johnson providing coverage. The Falcons' defense is poised to improve after a season of growing pains.

Graduation wiped out Air Force's defensive line, and the Falcons do not use transfers. This could be a weak point if Duquesne's offensive line can create running lanes or protect the passer. However, Duquesne's overall talent level may not be enough to exploit this inexperience.

Air Force plays at home with a venue HFA of 2.6, and the forecast is clear with a temperature of 38°F and light wind. These conditions are ideal for Air Force's run-heavy offense, as cold weather often favors the running game and can make passing difficult for opponents.

Air Force's unique policy of not using the transfer portal means the team has high continuity and discipline. This is especially beneficial early in the season, as the Falcons will have a cohesive unit that knows the system well, while Duquesne may have roster turnover. This should give Air Force an edge in execution.

Wyoming's offense struggled last year (16.0 PPG) but returns a new QB in Tyler Hughes (FCS William & Mary transfer) who threw for 2,330 yards and 20 TDs and rushed for 670 yards and 11 scores. He reunites with OC Christian Taylor, who coached him at W&M and then spent time with the Buffalo Bills. The Cowboys also bring back leading rusher Samuel Harris (558 yards, 5.6 YPC) and add FCS All-OVC back Markell Holman (1,063 yards). This revamped run-pass threat could surprise Colorado State's defense in Week 1.

Wyoming's defense finished fifth in the MWC in total defense last year and returns key pieces: MLB Ethan Stuhlsatz (strong spring, leadership), safety Jones Thomas (leading returning tackler, 2 INTs, 4 PBUs), and DT Dante Drake (missed 2025 with Achilles, expected to be top lineman). The unit also adds USC transfer LB Anthony Beavers. This core should keep the game close and limit big plays, especially against a Colorado State offense that may be breaking in new personnel.

Wyoming travels only 57 miles to Colorado State, essentially a neutral-site feel with minimal travel fatigue. The forecast is clear, 48°F with light wind (4 mph), which is ideal for Wyoming's ground-and-pound style and should not hinder their kicking game (both kicker Erik Sandvik and punter Bart Edmiston return). This situational advantage helps the Cowboys execute their game plan from the start.

Slot receiver Deion DeBlanc is also a dynamic return specialist, averaging 16.7 yards per punt return with a touchdown last year. In a low-scoring, field-position battle typical of Wyoming games, his ability to flip the field or create a short field for the offense could be a decisive factor against Colorado State.

Wyoming's identity under Sawvel is to slow the game down, control the clock, and physically punish opponents with a massive offensive line (including a potential Day 2 NFL draft pick) and 240-pound linebackers. This approach, combined with a new OC from the Bills who will emphasize the run, is designed to keep Colorado State's offense off the field and wear down their defense in the second half.