Utah State vs. Air Force Short Report | Sep 15, 2023
Falcon Stadium
USAF Academy, CO
Sep 15, 2023
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Game Recap
The Air Force Falcons soared over the Utah State Aggies with a commanding 39-21 victory on September 15, 2023. The Falcons stormed out in the first quarter with three touchdowns: two from fullback Emmanuel Michel and one from quarterback Zac Larrier. Michel set the tone early with a 1-yard touchdown rush, punctuated by a successful two-point conversion. Utah State's McCae Hillstead found Terrell Vaughn for a 2-yard touchdown pass, putting the Aggies on the scoreboard just before halftime.
In the second half, Air Force's dominance continued with Michel adding another touchdown run, bringing his total to three for the game, and kicker Matthew Dapore nailing a crucial 49-yard field goal just before halftime. Despite Hillstead's two additional touchdown passes to Jalen Royals and Micah Davis in the third and fourth quarters, the Aggies couldn't overcome the Falcons' stronghold. Michel's trio of rushing touchdowns, paired with Larrier's balanced offensive play, were pivotal in securing a decisive victory for Air Force.
Key Plays:
Emmanuel Michel (Air Force Falcons)
Michel started the game assertively with a 1-yard touchdown rush, backed by a successful two-point conversion. This early score set the tone for Air Force's dominance.
Zac Larrier (Air Force Falcons)
Larrier's 4-yard touchdown run extended Air Force's lead, showcasing his agility and enhancing the Falcons' offensive momentum.
Emmanuel Michel (Air Force Falcons)
Michel closed the first quarter with another dominant 2-yard touchdown rush, making it his second score and further asserting Air Force's control.
John Lee Eldridge III (Air Force Falcons)
Eldridge added to the Falcons' offensive onslaught with a 13-yard touchdown run, placing more pressure on the Aggies' defense.
McCae Hillstead (Utah State Aggies)
Hillstead connected with Terrell Vaughn for a 2-yard touchdown pass, marking Utah State's first score and providing a glimmer of hope before halftime.
Matthew Dapore (Air Force Falcons)
As the first half closed, Dapore's 49-yard field goal extended Air Force's lead, a crucial addition that added to the Falcons' robust halftime advantage.
Emmanuel Michel (Air Force Falcons)
Michel rushed for another 2-yard touchdown in the third quarter, his third of the game, ensuring Air Force maintained their stronghold.
McCae Hillstead (Utah State Aggies)
Hillstead's 9-yard touchdown pass to Jalen Royals cut into Air Force's lead, symbolizing Utah State's relentless offensive efforts.
McCae Hillstead (Utah State Aggies)
Hillstead found Micah Davis for a 6-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter, marking the last score of the game in a valiant effort to rally the Aggies.
Standout Players:
Emmanuel Michel (Air Force Falcons, FB)
Michel was a force to be reckoned with, carrying the ball 28 times for 106 yards and scoring three rushing touchdowns. His performance was the backbone of Air Force's ground game, which Utah State found difficult to contain throughout the match.
Zac Larrier (Air Force Falcons, QB)
Larrier displayed exceptional versatility, completing three passes for 84 yards while also rushing for 56 yards and a touchdown. His ability to balance Air Force's offense was critical in keeping Utah State's defense off-balance.
McCae Hillstead (Utah State Aggies, QB)
Despite the loss, Hillstead exhibited resilience by passing for 202 yards and three touchdowns. His efforts to rally the Aggies were evident, as he consistently sought out key targets under pressure from Air Force's defense.
Alec Mock (Air Force Falcons, LB)
On the defensive front, Mock was a standout with 11 total tackles, including nine solo tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and 2 sacks. His disruption in the Aggies' backfield played a pivotal role in stifling Utah State's offensive drives.
Micah Davis (Utah State Aggies, WR)
Davis was a reliable target for Hillstead, hauling in four catches for 84 yards and a touchdown. His contributions helped keep Utah State within striking distance, despite facing a tough Air Force defense.
Matthew Dapore (Air Force Falcons, K)
Dapore's special teams prowess was on full display as he remained perfect on PATs and hit a crucial 49-yard field goal. His reliable kicking ensured Air Force capitalized on scoring opportunities.
References:
Utah State Aggies vs. Air Force Falcons - Final Score - September 15, 2023 | FOX Sports
HIGHLIGHTS: Utah State at Air Force Football 9/15/2023 - YouTube
Air Force Academy Athletics
Utah State Aggies vs. Air Force Falcons Box Score and Stats - September 15, 2023 | FOX Sports
Source
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Utah State Aggies at Air Force Falcons - NCAAF News - Sep 15, 2023 | USA TODAY
NCAAF Betting Odds, Spreads & Lines
Source
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Utah State Aggies
0
7
7
7
21
Air Force Falcons
22
10
7
0
39
