From Deseret News archives:
Las Vegas Bowl game day
Today, 6 p.m.: TV: ESPN; Radio: 1160AM, 102.7FM
TV: ESPN — Radio: 1160AM, 102.7FM —
Cool but sunny during the day, high 45 and low 33.
THE STAKES
For Arizona ... This is the Wildcats' first bowl bid since 1998. A victory over a ranked team would be more proof that Arizona football is on the rise.
For BYU ... A win would give the Cougars three consecutive 11-2 seasons, as well as three straight bowl victories — something the program has never accomplished before. Winning tonight would also serve as a springboard for next season, perhaps ensuring that BYU is ranked at the start of the 2009 campaign.
THE TRENDS
For Arizona ... The Wildcats have also won two bowl games in a row, though their last appearance was a decade ago. They are 5-7-1 all-time in bowl games and tonight will mark their first-ever game in Las Vegas.
For BYU ... The Cougars have won two straight bowl games and are 9-16-1 all-time. BYU has a 10-2 record at Sam Boyd Stadium.
THE EDGE
Arizona will win if ... it is able to exploit BYU's defensive weaknesses with its speed and force the Cougars into turnovers. The Wildcats, who average 37 points a game, like their chances if this game turns into a shootout.
BYU will win if ... it can avoid turnovers — quarterback Max Hall threw five interceptions and coughed up a fumble against Utah. The Cougars need to avoid mistakes and be solid defensively.
INJURY REPORT
For BYU: Cornerback Scott Johnson, who suffered a double groin tear against Colorado State, is expected to see limited action tonight.
For Arizona: Offensive tackle Adam Grant has a broken finger but is expected to play.
PLAYER TO WATCH
Arizona quarterback Willie Tuitama: Having led the Wildcats to their first winning season and bowl appearance in 10 years, the senior QB is looking for a victory tonight to cap his career. Tuitama has plenty of weapons to utilize, including wide receiver Mike Thomas, running back Nic Grigsby and tight end Rob Gronkowski.
KEY MATCHUP
BYU's defense against Arizona's offense: The Wildcats are much more explosive and confident than they were when these two teams last met at the beginning of the 2007 season, when they managed only one touchdown. The Cougar 'D' has been susceptible against five-receiver sets this season. BYU will be looking to put pressure on Tuitama and shut down Arizona's short passing game.
CYBER TAILGATING
Catch up with News writers and photographers this afternoon at deseretnews.com to get the skinny leading up to today's showdown. And follow our live game blog at deseretnews.com/blogs.
