UNLV kept it close when it travel to BYU a month ago, falling by just 4 points, the closest home game for the Cougars this season. On Saturday, the rematch will be in Las Vegas, and a win by the hosts will pull them even with BYU atop the Mountain West st

2010-02-09

UNLV kept it close when it travel to BYU a month ago, falling by just 4 points, the closest home game for the Cougars this season. On Saturday, the rematch will be in Las Vegas, and a win by the hosts will pull them even with BYU atop the Mountain West standings. Most or all 2009-10 statistical analysis would seem to suggest that UNLV will have a tough time pulling this out, however, unlike most travelers, BYU has not enjoyed its trips to Sin City. Read on for a quick look at this intriguing MWC dual then head over to the LIVE ODDS page on Sportsbook.com to see the latest price.

Jimmer Fredette is back! After battling mononucleosis in late December, the junior guard has been lighting up Mountain West foes and is the leading reason why BYU (22-2, 12-9 ATS) has one the finest records in college basketball. The Cougars formula for success is simple; they lead the conference in field goal percentage offense and defense. This is a talented club who understands roles and plays them accordingly. BYU is 15-4 ATS in road games over the last two seasons and on an 8-0 ATS run in February.

UNLV coaches and players understand that any chance of winning the conference rests with winning this MWC contest. The Runnin’ Rebels (18-4, 14-6 ATS) have their deepest team since Lon Kruger arrived, however the loss of starting guard Derrick Jasper to injury will test that belief, especially for all he does. This signals that Tre’Von Willis and Chace Stanback will have to play up a level. UNLV is 7-1 ATS facing teams outscoring their opponents by four or points a game this season.

As noted earlier, BYU has struggled in Las Vegas, going 3-10 SU and 3-7 ATS in Sin City the last dozen years. This Cougars’ team may be the best of any during that span though, thus the reason the StaFox Power Ratings show they should be favored by at least 3-points here.

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