1. Utilize the tight end.
Fresno State tight ends have only caught three passes for 16 yards. The tight end should be a safety valve and a reliable target for an inexperienced quarterback.

2. Take the risk.
Defensive coordinator Randy Stewart can̢۪t be afraid to blitz quarterback Tony Pike.

3. Avoid the mismatch.
Defensive alignment and responsibility will be vital against the spread offense. That starts and ends with strong safety Moses Harris.

Position matchups

When Fresno State runs:
Advantage Fresno State
Fresno State tailback Ryan Mathews has been dominant in 2009, averaging 9.1 yards per carry. The Bearcats will have problems trying to stop him.

When Cincinnati runs:
Advantage Fresno State
Cincinnati̢۪s rushing attack averages 157 yards per game, but the ̢۪Dogs̢۪ front seven can stop tailbacks Jacob Ramsey and Isaiah Pead.

When Fresno State passes:
Advantage Cincinnati
Quarterback Ryan Colburn is averaging one interception every 12 throws. Until that changes, he is a liability.

When Cincinnati passes:
Advantage Cincinnati
Quarterback Tony Pike will have time to pick apart the defense, especially a secondary without free safety Lorne Bell.

Special teams:
Advantage Cincinnati
The Bulldogs gave up 36 yards per kickoff return last week. If kicker Andrew Shapiro can only kick the ball to the 15-yard line, Cincinnati will start at or around midfield.