Questions of the Week: Bears Look to Bounce Back against Air Force

Baylor (1-1) will face Air Force (1-1) at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, at McLane Stadium. Here are some of the top questions going into the 2022 Armed Forces Bowl rematch.

What To Make of Baylor’s Quarterback Play?

Quarterback Dequan Finn (6Sr.) struggled mightily on Saturday against No. 11 Utah, throwing for 115 yards on 9-of-21 passing.

His performance against the Utes left much to be desired, which raises questions about whether backup Sawyer Robertson (RJr.) will get some playing opportunities in the coming weeks. When Robertson was fully healthy last fall against West Virginia and in the first half versus Utah, he had a handful of good moments.

So far this season, Baylor’s defense is much better than last year. The offense, however, has a long way to go. While Utah is probably the best defense Baylor will play, it remains to be seen whether Finn is the right quarterback to lead this offense.

Can the Defense Dominate Up Front?

With Air Force coming to Waco this weekend, the Bears will face another physical, run-heavy team. In the 2022 Armed Forces Bowl, Baylor was out-gained on the ground 276-to-42. This time around, the Bears will look to get their revenge with a bigger and better front seven. 

Through two games, the defensive front looks like the most improved part of the team. Defensive linemen Jackie Marshall (RJr.), Cooper Lanz (RJr.), Treven Ma’ae (RSr.) and Elinus Noel III (Sr.) have all played well. Linebackers Matt Jones (6Sr.) and Keaton Thomas (RSo.) have been great also.

Is Baylor The New Iowa?

Baylor has a new not-so-secret weapon after his performance on Saturday. His name is punter Palmer Williams (So.). In the loss, he was Baylor’s most valuable player, averaging 62.7 yards per punt and landed two punts inside the 20.

Baylor has had spotty special teams in recent memory, and Williams can be a major factor if he can consistently punt like he did against No. 11 Utah, especially if Baylor’s offense continues to struggle.