Position breakdown: Tuesday night’s UNLV-Air Force game

Breaking down the UNLV basketball team's game at Air Force at 6:30 p.m. PST today:

BACKCOURT

Patrick McCaw can take over a game with his scoring, but he is more well-rounded than that. His defense was a key to UNLV's 87-80 victory over Colorado State on Saturday. Ike Nwamu is capable of getting hot at any time, and Jerome Seagears has picked it up defensively.

Edge: UNLV

FRONTCOURT

Air Force's Hayden Graham, who averages 14.3 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, will be a challenge for the Rebels. But UNLV matches up well with Air Force inside, and Derrick Jones Jr. (10.7, 4.1) should be able to make some plays.

Edge: UNLV

BENCH

Both teams have injury concerns, but the Falcons are deeper and better able to compensate. Being short-handed is simply the new reality for UNLV.

Edge: Air Force

INTANGIBLES

Clune Arena is a difficult place for the Rebels, who have lost two of the past three trips there. Plus, Air Force's Princeton-style offense often is a challenge.

Edge: Air Force

BOTTOM LINE

Betting line: UNLV -7½

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