The Baylor Bears and Air Force Falcons face off on Thursday in the Armed Forces Bowl at the Amon G. Carter Stadium. This is the first meeting played between the two teams in recent years.
Baylor comes into this game with a 6-6 record, and they have gone 7-5 against the spread so far this season. Baylor’s last game came against Texas, and they were competitive, but 14 points given up in the 4th quarter was the difference as they were defeated. Under center for Baylor was Blake Shapen, and he completed 18 of his 36 passes for 179 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Baylor is averaging 33.6 points, while their defense is giving up 26.6 points per game. On the season, Shapen has thrown for 2,602 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. In this game, it’s all going to be about stopping the run.
On the other side of this matchup is Air Force, who sits with a 9-3 record, and they have gone 6-6 against the spread. Air Force finished the season strong, winning four games in a row, and they leaned on the defense for success. During the four games, the defense has given up only 25 points total. In the last game against San Diego State, Air Force was able to secure a 13-3 victory. Brad Roberts had another huge game, finishing with 35 carries for 187 yards and a touchdown. Roberts on the season has rushed 308 times for 1,612 yards and 15 touchdowns.
The under is 4-0 in the Bear's last four games in December. The under is 4-0 in the Bear's last four games on a neutral site. The under is 4-0 in Air Force’s last four games following an against the spread win. Air Force is 1-5 against the spread in their last six games on Thursday.
This is tougher competition for Air Force, but I have been so impressed with the defense. Air Force has locked down the opposing team's offenses, and they are going to do it again here against the Baylor offense. You aren’t going to need the points here with Air Force. Back the Falcons on the money line.