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1 Keep track of the ball carrier. The Wolf Pack no longer run the classic Pistol offense but they have kept the same offensive structure and use many similar elements. Quarterback Cody Fajardo and running back Don Jackson are both dangerous in the ground game, so it will be important for Washington State’s defenders to keep track of both on every run play.

2 Get the running backs going. Jamal Morrow, Gerard Wicks and Theron West are some of WSU’s most explosive offensive players but the running back trio combined for just 14 touches last week, and only nine carries. Last season the Wolf Pack struggled to defend the run and that trend continued against Southern Utah. If the WSU rushing game can be a factor early in this game then the WSU offense could be unstoppable.

3 Stay patient on offense. The Nevada secondary was one of the best in the country at preventing big plays, and the only way the WSU passing game won’t be effective is if it leads to turnovers. Rather than challenge the Wolf Pack downfield, the Cougars should be content with intermediate passes and longer drives before scoring.

4 Get help from defensive newcomers. Teondray Caldwell and Tracy Clark couldn’t hold onto their starting jobs after week one, so now it’s time for redshirt freshmen Charleston White and Darius Lemora to show why they should be starters for the next four years at cornerback and safety, respectively. While the two lack the experience of their older counterparts, they should inject some athleticism and speed into the WSU defense.