Life after Liam
10-8-26
It came as a shock when we heard Air Force Quarterback Liam Szarka would miss the rest of the season with a lower leg injury. He was hurt late in the 3rd quarter of Navy. He went out for a couple of plays, then came back in and finished the game. I talked to him afterwards. He looked fine. But then issues cropped up Sunday, and Monday it was determined he would miss the rest of the season. What has he meant to Air Force? Here’s a number that gives you an idea. He has played 14 games and has accounted for 30 rushing and passing touchdowns. 30. An average of better than 2 per game.
Time doesn’t stand still and neither does sports. Air Force is at Northern Illinois Saturday at 530 on 740 KVOR. I believe Evan Medders will start at quarterback. He is just a sophomore but really opened a lot of eyes in fall camp. He is both quick and fast, maybe one of the quickest players I have seen. He gets to the hole right away. I was impressed watching him throw in practice as well. He has a strong arm. And now those talents will be on full display. The Falcons also have veteran Quarterback Josh Johnson, who played well late last year when Szarka broke a bone in his arm.
I have a hunch Saturday night Air Force will focus more on the fullback, partly because of Medders inexperience. He will still get the ball on run plays, and the Falcons will still throw it. But you have to remember he has talent around him and the coaching staff will use it. The other part of all this is the shock of losing your best player. How do the Falcons respond? Football coaches talk about “sudden change” and “next man up” and that’s the situation the Falcons are in. Also, do you worry about a bit of a letdown following the Navy win, or because of the win and loss of Szarka? I have not seen that from Troy Calhoun coached football teams in the past. I have a sneaky suspicion that Medders will be fine and the moment won’t be too big for him. As much as you may want to protect him, you also have to use him and his talents. I heard some minor criticism about the use of Szarka over the last 3 games because he had 79 carries. Well, there is a reason he had all those carries-he’s good, and he wins you football games. Air Force may be a bit more selective with play calling for Medders, but if he can get yards and win a game for ya, load up the wagon.
Air Force at N. Illinois Saturday at 530 on 740 KVOR
