3 things to watch

1

Local knowledge: Robb Akey spent eight seasons at WSU. He helped recruit many of the players. He also had to put his schemes and personnel up against the WSU offense every day in practice. So it’s obvious he has more knowledge of what WSU wants to do on defense and offense than any opposing coach the Cougars will face. Will it help? It has to.

2

The battle up front: Doba feels Idaho left guard Mike Iupati (6-foot-6, 330 pounds) could play for any team in the nation – he’s that good. Junior center Adam Korby (6-2, 292) is a 23-game starter. They are the main reasons Deonte’ Jackson has rushed for 313 yards in two games. But the inside of WSU defense is solid with tackles Aaron Johnson (6-7, 318), A’i Ahmu (6-0, 292) and Ropati Pitoitua (6-8, 290), who has been nursing a sore foot, and middle linebacker Greg Trent (5-11, 220).

3

Shiloh Keo and Jed Collins: The middle of the field is patrolled by the safeties, with the strong safety responsible in large part for the tight end’s side. Last year the Cougars took advantage of Keo’s inexperience to hit some big plays. But the sophomore has taken large steps this season, coming up big in the Vandals’ first two games. If there are any slight missteps, however, expect the experienced Collins and quarterback Alex Brink to take advantage of them.