The season opener for both teams will be a contrast in offensive styles.

Air Force ranked third in the FBS in rushing yards per game at 314.7 last season. Idaho State ranked ninth in the FCS in passing yards per game at 300.64.

Neither paid much attention to — or had much success — doing the opposite. The Bengals averaged 27 rushing yards a game last year, and the Falcons threw for 140.1.

“There are a lot of similarities with how radical they are offensively to how radical we are offensively,” said second-year Idaho State coach Mike Kramer, who went 2-9 in his first season in Pocatello. “One is the yin and the other the yang. Both teams’ defenses are going to have to change their skin and defend something they don’t normally see in practice.”

Kickoff is at noon.

Air Force has replaced standout quarterback Tim Jefferson with senior Connor Dietz (20 games, 678 rushing yards, four TDs).

Protecting quarterback Kevin Yost is Kramer’s biggest worry offensively. The Bengals allowed 66 sacks in 11 games last season, one reason for the terrible rushing numbers. Much of the trouble came from the interior line. Former Capital High standout Nick Beckman has been moved from tackle to guard to help shore up the middle of the line.

“Our offense will live and die literally on the interior of our offensive line protecting Kevin,” Kramer said.

Brian Murphy

Idaho State has lost 34 consecutive road games dating back to 2005.

“Until we have a road breakthrough against anybody, every road game is a huge challenge,” Kramer said.