UNLV-BYU rematch looms big

The rematch should be worth watching. CSTV found its way to Provo to put it on the air. They must have run out of field hockey and lacrosse games in Ivy League territory to do, so they stepped into MWC territory and decided to take part as a MWC TV partner for a change.

The key to this game is BYU breaking UNLV’s press and getting off shots in UNLV’s tough man defense. Also, the Rebels shot lights out in Las Vegas. Everytime UNLV shooters came down the floor in the Thomas & Mack in that 29-point beating last month, 25-footers were going in from all over the floor. If Lon Kruger’s team has any kind of success with those two items again and they could knock of the Cougars and end the home win streak at 43.

But I don’t think so. Teams have a tough time pulling off that kind of defense on BYU’s home court. They don’t seem to get the breaks and are called for aggressive play. Look for the Cougars to win this one by seven to 10.

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J.J. DiLuigi will not be used as a slot receiver or H-back or anything else next season. A key offensive coach told me Friday the Cougars need depth at running back, even with Harvey Unga as the lead man. DiLuigi will be given plenty of action as a running back.

Vic So’oto, who made a request to coaches to switch to defensive end, will still be used as a tight end in some formations. He is still a very physical blocker and will be used on some run formations, max protect pass situations and some blocking schemes on special teams. His versatility in that regard will enable the staff to take another player on road trips for other purposes.

The Cougars had a visit from one of their own who has made the big time this week. Philadelphia Eagle coach Andy Reid was in town this past week.