Like everyone else in the Aztec Nation, I'm stunned at the 0-5 start of this football season. The only hint of trouble during preseason practice in August was a couple of injuries. But the season quickly fell apart with an offensive line that was not ready for prime time, slow receivers and a QB who was much too conservative.
The defense, which actually played well against UTEP and shutout Wisconsin in the first half and really only gave the Badgers one decent drive in the last 30 minutes, eventually lost confidence and began blowing assignments in the next three losses.
Now, after a blessedly timed week off, the Aztecs return to action against Air Force and, I have to admit to having some optimism. Third string QB Kevin Craft looked like the real deal at BYU and now has Kevin O'Connell to back him up. RB Lynell Hamilton is ready to play again. The offensive line has improved dramatically. The week off could help the defenders restore their confidence in themselves and each other. And the Falcons are traditionally vulnerable from mid-October on through the rest of the season.
Those are the good news trends in Aztecs football. Let's say all come to fruition on Saturday night. They still might not be good enough to win. That's the trouble. In the two home games so far, they haven't even been competitive (let's face it, that rally vs UTEP was an aberration).
If they're uncompetitive again Saturday, despite some of this good news, the Aztecs will probably go 0-12 this season. If they drop a close game to a disciplined Falcons club, then at least it's a step forward. If they win, I'd be nearly as stunned as I am at the 0-5 start. But look at the rest of the schedule. An Aztecs team that continues to improve could put up a 5-2 finish for a final 5-7 record.
The bottom line to the musing is that the Air Force contest, coming as it does after the bye, is the bellweather game for the rest of the season.
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