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Air Force prepared for rivalry showdown in opener

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COLORADO SPRINGS — The 53rd meeting between the Air Force and Navy football programs promises to be among the most unique Saturday (4 p.m.) at Falcon Stadium.

With only Cadets in the stands, the Falcons will open their season against a Midshipmen team currently 1-1 on the 2020 season.

"Every time you play one of these service academy games, it's a big game," Falcons senior wide receiver Ben Peterson said. "Doesn't matter how many wins any team has, both teams are going to be ready to play and I think we'll see that Saturday."

For those AFA players returning, there will be plenty of motivation heading to kickoff after falling to the Naval Academy 34-25 last season. The final-second victory handed Ken Niumatalolo's squad the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy.

"A very emotional game this first game, last year they did win, but we're looking to change that up this year," Falcons senior linebacker Grant Donaldson said.

It has been a rivalry dominated by the home teams, with Air Force cruising to a 35-7 win in their last meeting in Colorado Springs.