Position breakdown ahead of UNLV at Boise State tonight

BACKCOURT

Both teams are strong in this area, and both sides rely on their guards to run their effective transition games. Each team averages more than 78 points per game. UNLV is led by Patrick McCaw (14.3-point average) and Boise State by Mikey Thompson (12.2).

Edge: UNLV

FRONTCOURT

Maybe Stephen Zimmerman Jr. (sprained left knee) comes back tonight for the Rebels. It would be crucial if he does, but Derrick Jones Jr. has done an admiral job playing out of position. Boise State's James Webb III (16.0 points, 9.3 rebounds) is a contender for Mountain West Player of the Year.

Edge: Boise State

BENCH

The Broncos now bring forward Anthony Drmic (11.8 points off the bench). Even if Zimmerman returns, UNLV is a thin team.

Edge: Boise State

INTANGIBLES

UNLV has won three of its past four games, and the Rebels beat Boise State last month. But the Rebels are 2-8 in true road games, and that remains a major problem.

Edge: Boise State

BOTTOM LINE

Boise State -8

Contact Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2914. Follow him on Twitter: @markanderson65