Air Force Academy Football: Falcons Eye Strong Season Under New Coach
The United States Air Force Academy football team enters the 2025 season with renewed optimism under first-year head coach Marcus Webb, who was hired in January after a successful stint as offensive coordinator at Navy. Webb has spent the offseason retooling the Falcons' triple-option offense while maintaining the physical, disciplined style of play that has defined Academy football for decades.
The Falcons return 16 starters from last season's 8-5 squad, including senior quarterback Darius Jackson, who threw for 1,800 yards and rushed for another 950 last year. Jackson, a team captain, has been praised by Webb for his leadership and football intelligence. The offensive line returns four starters, giving Jackson experienced protection as he operates Webb's updated scheme.
Defensively, the Falcons are anchored by junior linebacker Kyle Patterson, who led the Mountain West Conference in tackles last season with 112. The secondary welcomes back cornerback Isaiah Grant, who missed most of 2024 with a knee injury but has been cleared for full contact. Webb has emphasized a more aggressive defensive approach, blitzing more frequently than his predecessor.
The schedule features home games against rivals Navy and Army, as well as a non-conference matchup against Colorado State at Canvas Stadium. Season ticket sales at Falcon Stadium are up 15 percent compared to last year, reflecting the fanbase's excitement about the program's direction. The Falcons open their season on August 30 against Morgan State at home.