3 things to watch

1

Assignment blocking: Washington State did itself no favors last week by blowing a pass protection on the first play of the game. That play, as well as a couple of other early sacks, seemed to rattle quarterback Alex Brink. Idaho is certain to try to bring some pressure on Brink as well.

The Cougars need to do a better job of figuring out their assignments before the snap. Pressure on the quarterback can create big plays, and Idaho has to make a couple on defense to make the game interesting.

2

How long must this go on?: The rule changes implemented over the summer significantly cut down on the number of plays in games last week. Idaho might try to take advantage of that with a power running game against the more explosive Cougars.

If Idaho starts running the play clock down into the single digits early in the game, figure that Dennis Erickson would like to keep the number of snaps for each team around 60 – if that. Should that ploy be successful, it might dramatically increase Idaho’s chances at the upset, since WSU’s offense will have fewer opportunities to tire the Vandals defense.

3

Cornerback carousel: The Cougars are going to be without two of their top three corners in Don Turner and Markus Dawes in this game. That means junior college transfer Brian Williams, a player considered a project throughout camp, will be in the starting lineup. When Idaho attempts to throw the ball down the field, it’ll probably be to Williams’ side. Consider this week yet another litmus test for a battered WSU secondary.