Reviewing the predictions heading into Air Force’s 35-34 overtime defeat of Navy …
1. Neither team will reach its season average in rushing yards.
SEE RELATED:
CORRECT. Barely. Air Force managed 223 yards, well below its season average of 411.7 coming in. But Navy rolled up 334 yards, just shy of its 358.3-yard average on the season. Consider both totals a reflection of opportunity. Air Force had only 51 offensive snaps, while Navy checked in with 105 (including 80 rushes).
2. Still, Navy’s fullbacks will have more success today than last season against Air Force.
CORRECT. Teich was a workhorse, taking 35 carries for 148 yards —- a 4.2-yard average per carry. That was an improvement on a per attempt basis over last season.
3. Navy will score a touchdown in its first red zone trip.
INCORRECT. Navy settled for a field goal during its first visit inside the Air Force 20, and missed a field goal the next time in the red zone. For the day, Navy had four touchdowns and two field goals in seven red zone appearances.
4. It will take no more than three hours to complete regulation.
INCORRECT. I didn’t scribble down what time regulation ended, but overtime didn’t take the half-hour or so necessary to turn it into a 3 hour, 32 minute affair. Score another victory for television.
5. It will be a one-possession game.
CORRECT. It didn’t seem like it would be for most of the day, but Navy rallied to force overtime after trailing by 18 points in the fourth quarter. It was the eighth time in the last nine meetings the game was decided by eight points or less.
Record vs. Air Force: 3-for-5
Season record: 14-for-20
—- Patrick Stevens
