3 key points — Utah State defense

• STYLE: The Aggies return all 11 starters on the defensive side of the ball. They still have a lot of underclassmen at several positions, but at least they have game experience. Defensive coaches are saying they are picking up the defense and should have a better idea of what teams are throwing at them. The defense sure could use the help of the offense. They were on the field way too long, and because they were young and tired, they gave up a lot of points, yards and big plays.

• PERSONNEL: Jake Hutton, who led the team in tackles as a freshman linebacker, is healthy after missing most of the season last year due to a foot injury. Paul Igboeli, the WAC freshman of the year, Devon Hall, Daryl Fields and Derrick Cumbee all saw considerable action last year.

• WHAT TO EXPECT: The defense will hinge on the effectiveness of the defensive line, which includes Ben Calderwood, a preseason all-WAC selection. Last season, the defensive line managed just seven sacks.