Breaking down UNLV’s game at Boise State Saturday
Breaking down UNLV’s basketball game at Boise State at 5 p.m. Saturday:
Backcourt
Boise State’s Chandler Hutchison carved up the Rebels for 32 points and 12 rebounds in the first meeting, and he is the favorite for Mountain West Player of the Year. The Broncos also have Justinian Jessup (12.0-point average, 5.1 rebounds) and Lexus Williams (8.8 points).
Edge: Boise State
Frontcourt
UNLV’s Brandon McCoy has 43 points and 24 rebounds in his past two games combined, and is well on his way to conference Freshman of the Year. Shakur Juiston totaled 31 points and 20 rebounds in those two victories, and Tervell Beck’s move into the starting lineup has helped the Rebels defensively.
Edge: UNLV
Bench
Kris Clyburn has responded to his move to the bench by making a combined 5 of 10 baskets the past two games, and he came up with a huge blocked shot against San Jose State. He had made just 2 of 15 shots in his previous three games.
Edge: UNLV
Intangibles
Boise State is expecting a sellout crowd, and Broncos coach Leon Rice rode a horse through campus Friday to get everyone fired up. It should be an electric atmosphere at Taco Bell Arena, where the Broncos have beaten UNLV the past four seasons. Boise State also has won six of the past seven meetings.
Edge: Boise State
Betting line
Boise State -7; total 153
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Contact Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com. Follow @markanderson65 on Twitter.
