1. Nothin’ up the middle
Middle linebacker Ben Jacobs will play a pivotal role in the Bulldogs̢۪ rush defense. He needs to mirror his 15-tackle performance at Wisconsin.

2. Kick it deep
Whether it is Kevin Goessling or Andrew Shapiro, the kickers need to get touchbacks on the kickoffs.

3. Secret Weapon?
Freshman tailback Robbie Rouse hasn̢۪t been used much yet, but when he does touch the ball, he averages 7.5 yards per carry.

Position matchups

When Fresno State runs:
Advantage Boise State
Boise State̢۪s opponents are averaging 34.5 rushing yards per game. The ̢۪Dogs will have to get creative with rushing quarterback Ebahn Feathers.

When Boise State runs:
Advantage Boise State
Bronco tailbacks Jeremy Avery and D.J. Harper ran for 277 yards and four scores last time they visited the Valley and they were only freshmen.

When Fresno State passes:
Advantage Fresno State
Quarterback Ryan Colburn found his sea legs last week and showed promise, but he needs to have a better game against Boise State.

When Boise State passes:
Advantage Boise State
Without safety Lorne Bell (MCL strain), the depleted secondary just cannot keep up.

Special teams:
Advantage Fresno State
The field position battle will always be key, and the Bulldogs have the advantage with punter Robert Malone and kick returner Devon Wylie. The ̢۪Dogs must improve on kick and punt coverage though.