Utah State vs. Nevada preview: Old WAC foes face off

When: Tuesday 8 p.m. MT

TV: UtahStateaggies.tv, Nevadawolfpack.tv and MWN

Radio: KVNU 610 AM in Logan and 94.5 FM in reno

Odds: Utah State is favored by one point

Utah State (10-7,3-2) travels to Reno, Nevada, to battle old WAC rival Nevada (6-10,2-2). Both teams have struggled to find their footing in the Mountain West. Utah State finished 8th in its first year in the conference, while Nevada finished last in its first year and fourth last year (still had an under .500 record). With that trend looking to continue this year (both teams are middle of the pack in MW standings) both teams are looking for every win they can get.

The biggest keys to winning this game for both teams are rebounding and 3-point shooting. Surprisingly Nevada is one of the best rebounding teams in the nation (11th overall, 8th offensive rebounds) while less surprising is that the Aggies are abysmal (309th). If the Aggies are unable to limit Nevada's offensive rebounds and second chance points it could turn into a long, frustrating night for Utah State. Additionally the teams are polar opposites when it comes to 3-point shooting. Utah State ranks 29th in three-point shooting while Nevada ranks second to last at 349th. If Utah State is able to get in a rhythm early Nevada may find themselves struggling to catch up.

This Game looks to be a winnable game for both teams. A Utah State win will move them to 4-2 in conference, tied with Fresno, New Mexico, and CSU for third (if only for a day). A Nevada win pulls them to within half a game of that third place pack. I think the Aggies will struggle to find their rhythm on the road while a strong night on the glass for Nevada pushes them past a young Utah State in a very close one. Nevada wins 64-62