LARAMIE — Wyoming redshirt freshman linebacker Steven Perez was named the Old Trapper Mountain West Freshman of the Week on Monday after leading the Cowboys with 17 tackles in their 28-14 victory over Air Force on Friday at War Memorial Stadium.
Perez’s performance helped anchor a Wyoming defense that forced three fumbles from an Air Force team that had not lost a fumble all season. His fourth-quarter fumble recovery helped the Cowboys protect their lead as the Falcons attempted to rally, contributing to Wyoming’s third consecutive victory.
Perez recorded eight tackles in the first half and added nine after halftime, finishing with the most tackles by a Wyoming player in a game since Chad Muma recorded 17 against Utah State in 2021. His production was particularly important as Air Force cut Wyoming’s lead to 21-14 in the second half and made it a one-score game late.
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The Cowboys’ defense came up with critical takeaways to prevent the Falcons from completing the comeback. Air Force quarterback Josh Johnson lost a fumble at the Wyoming 10-yard line with 12:09 remaining, ending a possession that could have tied the game. Perez then recovered a fumble near midfield on fourth-and-2 with 8:20 left, giving Wyoming possession while it held a seven-point lead and helping the Cowboys preserve their advantage.
Wyoming added a 1-yard rushing touchdown with 3:04 remaining to secure the 28-14 win. The defensive stops and takeaways helped preserve the Cowboys’ advantage after Air Force had closed the gap.
The honor marks the third consecutive week a Wyoming player has received a Mountain West player of the week award.
Perez ranks second on the Cowboys this season with 54 total tackles. He has also recorded 5.5 tackles for loss, second on the team, along with 1.5 sacks and two fumble recoveries.
Wyoming is 5-3 overall and 4-1 in Mountain West play. The Cowboys have a bye next week before traveling to face UNLV on Nov. 7 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, with kickoff scheduled for 8:30 p.m.
