The conference opener will be critical for Utah State, which follows its encounter against Air Force with back-to-back road game at Boise State and Colorado State. The Aggies routed the Broncos (52-26) and the Rams (33-18) last season, so both teams will be seeking payback.
Following its only bye of the season on Oct. 15, Utah State plays consecutive home games against Fresno State and San Diego State.
After a 1-3 start, the Aztecs won the Mountain West Conference championship last season. They went 11-3 overall and 8-0 in league play. They defeated Air Force in the title game, 27-24, before rolling to a 42-7 victory over Cincinnati in the Hawaii Bowl.