3 things to watch

1

On the run: Baylor’s offense will try to hit receivers on the run all day, and quarterback Shawn Bell’s accuracy will be at a premium in this game. The Bears will depend on completing short passes to move the ball down the field, but to get big plays Baylor will want those shorter throws to turn into long ones. Bell’s ability to hit receivers on the move off quick throws could determine how well Baylor does on offense.

2

Up the gut: DeMaundray Woolridge’s return to the lineup means the Cougars could try to mash the ball up the middle of the defense, as they did to a degree at Auburn two weeks ago. The Cougars found big success running the ball to the right side last week, and they’ll probably look to the same place this week in an attempt to outmuscle the Bears.

3

A long way to go: WSU defensive ends account for a big part of the pass rush. That could be more difficult this week because Baylor tackles will be much farther away from the quarterback than usual, with the Bears splitting their linemen unusually wide. Cougars defensive ends will almost certainly attack the inside shoulder of the tackles in an attempt to get to the passer quickly. Should they be successful, Baylor will have to adjust and it could destroy its offensive rhythm. If not, Washington State’s pass rush will be negated to a degree and the pressure falls on Cougars cornerbacks.