“Who’s your Quarterback?” Football coaches hate that question. They hate talking about quarterbacks, they hate even having to think about the topic. But it confronts head coach Troy Calhoun and the Falcons this week as they play Utah State Saturday night at 815 on 740 KVOR. His starter Donald Hammond went down with an upper arm or shoulder injury on the first drive of the game against Hawaii. Backup Isaiah Sanders did not make the trip as he tries to come back from a leg injury, so Mike Schmidt, who had just a handful of snaps in his 3 plus years went in . All he did was light up the Rainbow Warriors with 147 yards and a touchdown pass and 120 yards rushing and 3 touchdowns. He was named the Mountain West Conference Player of the Week. So, if Hammond is healthy, who do you start? I think it’s an easy decision. If Hammond is good to go, it’s Hammond. He has played well and the Falcons have played well behind him. If he’s less than 100% I give the ball to Mike Schmidt. I think Isaiah Sander still probably needs to knock some rust off, so Schmidt would get the call if Hammond can’t go. And yes, it’s a huge game for Air Force. Win, and they are bowl eligible, and also exceed last year’s win total. It also keeps them in the hunt for the division title if Boise State slips. As much as Calhoun (or any head coach) hates talking about quarterback controversies, there’s a comfort in knowing you have guys behind the starter who can get things done. Air Force may need more Michael Schmidt magic Saturday against Utah State, if Hammond can’t go.
Air Force and Utah State, Saturday night at 815 on 740 KVOR.
