Cadets were given three months of rigorous physical training and instruction in basic aerial navigation and communications.
It was believed that the rigors of college football were ideal preparation for World War II.
Each team usually played established football powers in their respective region and other service academies.
They finished second in the final AP Poll and were named the service academy national champion.
Wilkinson went on to coach at Oklahoma, where he won three national championships and set an NCAA record with 47 consecutive wins.