Arizona Bowl, South Alabama vs Air Force: Preview and predictions

Nov 25, 2016; Colorado Springs, CO, USA; Air Force Falcons wide receiver Jalen Robinette (9) celebrates the touchdown of running back Shayne Davern (43) in the third quarter against the Boise State Broncos at Falcon Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

Take a look at the preview and final score prediction for Friday evening’s Arizona Bowl between South Alabama and Air Force.

Air Force is one of those teams that can just wear opponents down. The Falcons, despite their name, are not good through the air. They are much more of a running team, and that’s what can get opponents in trouble.

In fact, they average over 300 yards per game on the ground and that might spell major trouble for South Alabama who allowed over 210 rushing yards per game. The Falcons finished the regular season with a 9-3 record.

South Alabama opened the season with one of the biggest upset wins of the season, taking down Mississippi State on the road. The Jaguars would lose their next two games, though, and finish the season 6-6 and in eighth place in the Sun Belt.

Dallas Davis might have over 2,000 yards passing for the Jaguars, but his 10 touchdowns to 11 interceptions might be holding this team back. Can they put that behind them and pull off a big win over Air Force?

Here’s how you can watch the Arizona Bowl online Friday:

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Date: Friday, Dec. 30
Start Time: 5:30 p.m. ET
Location: Tucson, AZ
Venue: Arizona Stadium
TV: America Sports Network
Live Stream: ASN Live

Keys to Victory

There’s no question that if South Alabama wants a shot at winning this game, it will need to shut down Air Force’s run game. The Falcons average over 300 yards per game on the ground and the Jaguars aren’t great at stopping the run. This game could get out of hand if committing to stopping the run doesn’t happen early on.

As for Air Force, sticking with the run game will be important. South Alabama’s defense ranks 98th in the country in rushing yards allowed per game which bodes well for the Falcons. Just wearing down the front-seven will be important for Air Force on the ground.

Betting Odds

Live Stream: Air Force -13.5
Over/Under: 57

Prediction

Air Force is going to have its way with the Jaguars on the ground. The Falcons, led by Jacobi Owens, will rush for nearly 400 yards in this one and jump out to a monster lead before South Alabama adds a few touchdowns of their own. This one could get out of hand because of Air Force’s strength combatting South Alabama’s weakness.

Final Score: South Alabama 21, Air Force 38

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