Week 2: How to Watch, Who Will Win, and Game Thread (Part 2)

Mountain West Football is back for another week! Check out this week’s lineup for Friday and Saturday games.

Friday, October 30th

Hawaii vs Wyoming (7:45 PM MT) | Coverage: FS1

Saturday, October 31st

Boise State vs Air Force (4:00 PM MT) | Coverage: CBS Sports

San Jose State vs New Mexico (5:00 PM MT) | Coverage: FS1

San Diego State vs Utah State (7:30 PM MT) | Coverage: CBS Sports

Nevada vs UNLV (8:30 PM MT) | Coverage: FS1

Game Previews:

• Air Force
• Hawaii
• San Jose State
• Boise State
• Utah State
• Nevada
• New Mexico
• UNLV

What to Watch For:

• Hawaii/Wyoming: One had what outsiders would call a surprising win, while the other had a heart-breaking loss. For the Rainbow Warriors, they should stick to the exact same formula, although now it’s against a much better defense. Looking at the Cowboys, how will the team move past Chamber’s injury and what will Levi Williams look like now knowing he’s the unquestioned starter? Is it too early to call this game a must win for Wyoming’s conference championship hopes?
• Air Force/Boise State: The Falcons are looking to bounce back after a surprising loss. Will they play Remsburg and Laufenberg? Will their rushing attack find another gear or continue to stutter? With the Broncos, they executed an effective game last week, but can it continue against a team who’s always played them well? Will the new defensive starters be able to stay disciplined against the option? The Bronco teams who have struggled have often done so on the offensive end, will the offense out execute the Falcon defense?
• SJSU/New Mexico: The Spartans came out Saturday and picked up right where they left off last season, as a competitive team who is closer to the median of the conference than the bottom. Their offense and defense should be more than enough for New Mexico. Looking at the Lobos, it will be nice to finally see the team in action. The goal for them should be to stick to their game plan, keep it competitive, and try to steal a win. If all else fails, they should feature their young running back often to get him as many reps as possible for development.
• SDSU/Utah State: The Aztecs looked pretty dominant and should see a similar quality opponent here this week. Establish the run early and often and once they build a comfortable lead, develop the passing game more. They will need it for their championship hopes. The Aggies need to bounce back and the road isn’t easier this week. They intensity and production from their third quarter last week to start this week. They were at their best going to the running game and need to find a way to make the passing game work to keep the defense honest.
• Nevada/UNLV: The Wolf Pack looked like a Mountain West contender with their offense firing on all cylinders. The Rebels struggled to move the ball and stop the ball against a great team. Does the game follow that script again this week or is everything thrown out the window because it’s THE BATTLE FOR THE CANNON?

Who Will Win:

Join the discussion before, during, and after the games by sharing your thoughts on these questions and more in the comments below.