The 1987 season was marked by a drop in completion percentage from more than 60% to 53.4% but also by an improvement in passing touchdown efficiency, with Wilhelm connecting for 17 touchdown strikes while suffering 21 picks. Wilhelm's 226 attempts and 423 completions in support of Coach Kragthorpe's "Air Force" offense nevertheless led the Pac-10, as did his 2,736 yards gained through the air. He set a school record for single game passing yardage in an October 10 victory over the University of Akron, racking up 461 yards in the air. The team as a whole took a step backwards, however, finishing 2–9 overall and winless in Pac-10 conference action.