This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2010, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Here are some of the keys for Utah State in its opener at the Spectrum against Weber State
1) Contain Damian Lillard - This is obvious. Lillard and BYU's Jimmer Fredette are the two best players in the state, with USU's Tai Wesley in the hunt as well. Lillard is as difficult to contain as anyone, and he'll be a challenge for Pooh Williams and Brockeith Pane. But the saying goes, you cut the head and the body dies, and that certainly applies here. Weber has other good players, but Lillard is absolutely the key.
2) Brockeith Pane - He was spectacular in USU's two exhibition wins. Now it's for real. Pane showed the ability to score in game one, and the ability to pass and get his teammates involved in game two. Morrill would like to see the 10 assist version of Pane because that means everyone's getting touches. But Pane is a very good scorer, so it will be interesting to see how he balances the two.
3) Get the bigs involved - When the halfcourt offense goes through Tai Wesley, Utah State is at its best. The Wildcats don't have anyone who can remotely deal with Wesley in the lane. That means if Wesley gets a number of looks, he'll command a double team, which means the offense will flow.
4) Kyle Bullinger - Weber's forward lit the Aggies up last year to the tune of 21 points. He's the Wildcat's second best player, and he can't be allowed to have a great game.
5) Deal with size - Between Trevor Morris and company, Weber has plenty of size. Utah State doesn't, especially with Nate Bendall out for tomorrow's game. Wesley and Brady Jardine are going to have to hold down the paint. Matt Formisano and Morgan Grim are going to have to play well off the bench. This will be a big key.
Tony Jones