Armed Forces Bowl: Air Force Claim 31-21 Win Over James Madison

In a game celebrating the American armed forces, it was a service academy that earned an impressive victory. The Air Force Falcons broke a four-game losing

© Andrew Dieb-USA TODAY Sports

In a game celebrating the American armed forces, it was a service academy that earned an impressive victory.

The Air Force Falcons broke a four-game losing streak to beat the James Madison Dukes 31-21 in the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl. It's their third consecutive year with a bowl victory and their eighth under Troy Calhoun. Calhoun is 8-5 in bowl games as Air Force's head coach.

Air Force linebacker Bo Richter was arguably the game's best player with three sacks, 4.5 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble.

Here's what else stood out in the latest Falcons' win.

Zac Larrier's Return To The Falcons' Lineup

After missing time throughout the year with minor injuries, including most of the final month of the regular season, starting quarterback Zac Larrier was back in the saddle for Air Force. The senior from Youngstown, Ohio threw a touchdown and rushed for one, along with 26 yards on the ground.

Air Force passing touchdown

Zac Larrier goes deep for Jared Roznos. Falcons lead 21-7 at halftime.

https://t.co/B5Ai8JTw4G

— Brendan Moore (@bmoorecfb) December 23, 2023

Optimal Option Offense

Unsurprisingly, Air Force ran their signature option offense efficiently and successfully on Saturday. The Falcons ended the game with 351 yards on the ground, including a 203-yard day from fullback Emmanuel Michel. Michel also had two rushing touchdowns and was named offensive player of the game.

Running back John Lee Eldridge III was also a key contributor for the Falcons, carrying eight times for 78 yards. 

What Now For JMU?

In their first appearance in an FBS bowl game, the Dukes came up short. JMU's head coach who got them to this point, Curt Cignetti, has moved on to Indiana, along with many of their better players. A handful of important players that did play in this game are currently in the transfer portal, including Sun Belt Player of the Year Jordan McCloud. Does he stay or does he go? New head coach Bob Chesney likely has a plan either way, but it's something to watch in the coming days.