Air Force once again has one of the nation’s top defenses. The Falcons, who led the nation in total defense for the first time in program history last season, rank third this week with a 239.6 average. Air Force is fifth nationally in scoring defense with a 14.4 average. The Falcons have allowed 21 points or less in seven games this season. Air Force is fourth in the nation in passing defense, allowing just 157.4 yards per game. Air Force is fourth in the nation in first down defense, allowing just 112. Air Force has ranked in the nation’s top 10 the last four seasons in total defense, finishing fourth in 2021 and sixth in 2020.
Air Force has held 16 straight opponents to 30 points or less which is the longest streak in the nation. Penn State is second at 14, followed by Georgia (10) and Florida State, Michigan and Ohio State with nine. Air Force has held 14 of last 16 opponents to 21 points or fewer the last two seasons. Air Force gave up just 10 combined points its first two games, tied for the fewest allowed through two games of a season by a Mountain West school in conference history. Air Force has gone six straight games allowing seven points or less in the second half. The Falcons have allowed seven or less in eight of nine games this season.
Air Force won 13 straight games dating back to last season earlier this season which tied a school record with the 1984-85 team. The streak was the fourth longest active streak in the nation. Air Force opened the season 8-0 and was one of eight undefeated teams in the nation. The Falcons were the last MW team to lose a game this season.
