San Jose State vs. Air Force: Keys For A Spartans Victory

Can the Spartans win back-to-back games?

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SJSU takes on the triple option

San Jose State is coming off one of the biggest victories in school history against Arkansas. It’s going to take that same energy and passion to get passed Air Force to start conference play.

Air Force, on the other hand, lost a heavily contested battle at Boise State last week 30-19. The Broncos were able to pull away in the second half after running back Robert Mahone scored a pair of touchdowns.

This is how the Spartans can win back to back games.

Three Keys to a SJSU Victory

Throw the ball to Tre Walker

Walker missed the first three games of the season because of an ankle injury. Without him on the field, other receivers had opportunities to make plays but something was missing. Against Arkansas, Walker made a big return on a grand stage. He was able to snag 12 catches for 161 yards and now leads the team in receiving.

Quarterback Josh Love had a great day against the Razorbacks as well. He was only sacked once the entire game and threw for over 400 yards. Love is only as good as his protection, so the O-line needs to keep playing like they did against Arkansas.

Stop the run, force the pass

The Spartans got five interceptions in their victory last week, with Bobby Brown II getting two. Air Force does run the triple option, but coach Brennan mentioned that they pass the ball incredibly well.

Forcing long third downs will cause Air Force’s offense to rely on the passing game. San Jose State’s linebackers have to play sound. Everyone has to know their assignments. Linebacker Ethan Aguayo should be able to rack up tackles when facing a run-heavy offense.

Forget about last week

The Spartans had one of the best weeks of their program’s history last week. Definitely the most important victory of coach Brennan’s career. This was San Jose State’s first victory over an SEC opponent and first victory against a Power Five conference since 2006.

Air Force one of the better teams in the Mountain West. After a loss on the road, expect them to come home with some vengeance. This team is going to run the ball over 50 times a game. The time of possession is a battle the Spartans need to win to keep their defense fresh.

Prediction

San Jose State has a ton of momentum behind them. This is the first 2-1 start for Coach Brennan. He just got his first road victory. This team is rolling and the sky’s the limit.

Air Force just lost a game they thought they could win. This team plays disciplined football and will run the ball the entire game. This is going to be a close game, but the Spartans’ defensive playmakers will ensure back to back victories.

SJSU 31, Air Force 28