The Good, the Bad, the Ugly: Week 12

Week 12 of the college football season is behind us, and it was a fun one in the Mountain West. The teams that needed wins got them, and it sets up the biggest weekend of the season, as Boise State travels to Utah State and San Diego State heads to Hawaii. Let’s revisit the good, bad, and ugly moments of week 12.

The Good:

Air Force

It wasn’t pretty for three quarters, but the Falcons found their stride in the fourth quarter. Air Force did an excellent job slowing down the potent, passing attack of Colorado State. Hammond may have only completed five passes, but three of them were for touchdowns. The Falcons put 28 points on the board in the fourth quarter, as Air Force came away with the 38-21 victory.

Boise State

It wasn’t always pretty, but Boise State came away with a convincing victory. But, at what cost? Curtis Weaver left the came with an injury and was seen in a boot on the sideline. Also, the status of quarterbacks Hank Bachmeier and Chase Cord are in the air going forward. However, it was an impressive showing for a banged up squad. Third string quarterback Jaylon Henderson did a nice job on Senior Day.

San Diego State

I never thought I would see a Rocky Long team throw the ball nearly 50 times, but the Aztecs did just that. Fresno came in selling out on the run, and they did that. But, Agnew did just enough for the Aztecs to come away with a 17-7 victory.

Utah State

The Aggies did what they needed to do and beat a tough Cowboy squad. Jordan Love overcame two early interceptions and showed why NFL scouts are enamored with his talent. However, a hit late in the third quarter sidelined Love for most of the fourth quarter. Will Love be able to lead the Aggies in a battle against Boise State for first place?

Hawaii

The revolving carousel at quarterback continued in Las Vegas. It wasn’t pretty, and they probably deserve to be in the “Bad” category, but Las Vegas has always been a tricky spot for the Rainbow Warriors. McDonald came in for Cordeiro and led Hawaii to the 21-7 victory. It is a good thing their defense came to play.

The Bad:

Colorado State

I was very impressed with the Rams defense for three quarters. They did an excellent job containing an Air Force offense that has wreaked havoc on most of the Mountain West. However, the offense couldn’t get the cushion they needed, and Air Force was able to wear the Ram defense down.

UNLV

The fact that they only scored seven points against that Hawaii defense is embarrassing enough, but their defense was solid enough to keep them out of the “Ugly” category. Sanchez is in his final days as head coach in Las Vegas; will he be able to finish his tenure with a few wins?

The Ugly:

Wyoming

The Cowboys took a completely different approach in this game than they did against Boise State. They let Vander Waal be more aggressive in the passing game, and they paid for it. Ultimately, Vander Waal’s decision making cost Wyoming the game. The late interception and the early fumble were momentum killers. You could definitely tell that Bohl was concerned about giving the ball to Valladay too much.

Fresno State

San Diego State deserves most of the credit for having an excellent game plan. However, the Bulldogs looked completely inept on the offensive side of the field. Fresno State fell to 4-6 and are likely to stay home during bowl season. Is this a sign of things to come for Jeff Tedford and the Bulldogs? Or is it just a rebuilding season?

New Mexico

I thought this team would come out with an emotional lift. Turns out it was quite the opposite. I feel for New Mexico, but it is time for them to re-evaluate their football program. Do they have the money to fire Davie? Maybe he will do the right thing and resign. Whatever happens, this team is nowhere near ready to compete in the Mountain West.

That’s it for this edition of “The Good, the Bad, the Ugly.” What were some moments from week 12 that stuck out to you.