Air Force at UNLV

Fat and happy, unbeaten UNLV returns home after two straight road victories, beating Miami of Ohio and Wyoming.  The Rebels haven't played a home game in more than a month. Not only are the Rebels in a letdown spot, but their focus could be off. Air Force is far more dangerous than its 1-4 record shows. Navy nearly found that out the hard way last week as the Midshipmen needed a fourth-quarter field goal to nip the Falcons, 34-31, as a nearly two-touchdown home favorite. Air Force is No. 2 in the nation in total yards and rushing. The Falcons average more than one yard per play than UNLV. Quarterback Liam Szarka is emerging as a star for Air Force, becoming the first player in Mountain West history with three straight 200-yard passing and 100-yard rushing games. Falcons wide receiver Cade Harris leads the Mountain West in all-purpose yards per game, and fellow wide receiver Quin Smith is second in the nation in yards per catch at 27.5. UNLV is winning with offense, not defense. The Rebels are giving up 270 yards through the air and 140 yards on the ground per game. That ranks them 115th defensively in total yards. The Falcons are vulnerable defensively as well. However, their unique triple-option offense, expertly executed by Szarka, can maintain ball control. Take Air Force to cover.