Robert Gagliardi, Wyoming beat writer for the Laramie Boomerang and Wyoming Tribune, asked if I’d participate in a question-and-answer session about this week’s game between Air Force and Wyoming. Since I rarely turn down a chance to talk, I did it. You can find the full back and forth by clicking this link. I want you to go there for the full Q&A (it was his idea, after all, so you should check him out), but here’s one of the answers from each of us to tease you:

RG: What’s your impression of Wyoming this season, and in your opinion, is this a good series for both schools to keep going if Air Force does leave for another conference?

FS: Very surprised by Wyoming. I really thought it was a good team that was going to have its quarterback situation wreck a promising season. Well, I had no idea Brett Smith was that good. Good to see, too, I think Wyoming has good fans and deserve a good team. As far as the series, I’m not sure. I think fans would like it. Air Force would like it. But how would Wyoming feel? Aside from just the natural displeasure with them leaving the conference – NOBODY likes to play Air Force and it’s difficult offense to prepare for. Would Wyoming want to even play the Falcons every year? The rivalries are cool, but preparing for the option is certainly not.

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FS: When did you know (Wyoming QB) Brett Smith was legit? I’m not going to lie, I had no idea he would be this good this fast.

RG: It was Wyoming’s first scrimmage of fall camp and Smith lit up the defense by throwing and running. Right then I knew he would be the starter, but still didn’t think he would achieve the level of success he’s had so far this season. One other thing that led me to believe he was legit was watching a summer workout in the weight room. The team was testing right before the start of fall camp, and Smith was one of the few true freshmen there. It wasn’t his presence or how much weight he could lift that impressed me, but his how he acted as a leader and how his teammates responded to him. That was very impressive to see from such a young kid.

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