And when we shall see how well Kyle Collinsworth is able to play. This November 24th game vs the Aztecs is his target game to lift all restrictions on minutes. He doesn't need to do too much, just be efficient and distribute the ball; rebound and play defense with passion. Against this opponent, the perimeter should open up. If it doesn't then KC takes the ball to the hoop.

Now that the team is getting the offensive contributions expected from Haws, and Fischer, the able role play from Austin and Winder, the nice surprises from Halford and Worthington, and the promising outside threat and rebounding support from freshmen Nixon, Toolson, Kaufusi, and Neilson; Collinsworth is the missing central piece of this puzzle remaining to get the team on track to rapid improvement throughout the season. Improved defense may have much to do with KC's recovery.

Winning the game is always important; this one may be the most important of the calendar year. RPI is at stake in a way it will be for no other game. A win over a ranked rival advances them to a game against another ranked opponent. A loss drops them to a meaningless D-2 game.

If BYU plays well and loses and then wins two in Hawaii, it can still be encouraging. But a win against one of the top defensive teams in the nation sets the Cougars up well for the defensive minded Utes at home on December 10, and for the rest of the pre conference games. It could make the difference between going into WCC play at 12-1 vs 9-4.

The primary condition for everyone with lofty expectations for this team has been a heathy Collinsworth from Day 1. While we haven't seen anything close to that, the team did escape Long Beach State with a victory and is able now to travel to Maui with the 3-0 record.

If KC needs another month to return his game to last year's level, they can still make some noise in March. But, it will be tougher to get to the Show because it would require quality wins over the mighty Zags. This game will tell us whether or not they are on track for a 30-win season. KC will tell us if he is ready to lead.