Keep the quarterback upright

Somehow, Jeff Tuel stayed healthy last year despite absorbing 48 of the 51 sacks Washington State allowed. He might not be so lucky if the line is as porous.

Run the rock

There's no doubting that the best thing WSU does is throw the ball. The Cougars, a bad last in Pac-10 rushing last year at 91 yards per game, could take the pressure off Tuel with a committee of backs led by Logwone Mitz and Rickey Galvin.

Hold the point of attack

Nothing has marked the Paul Wulff regime like a substandard run defense, which allowed an average of 220 yards in 2010. It should be better this year. How much better is the key.

Preserve the hidden yards

The Cougars improved significantly in 2010 at special teams, but this year Daniel Wagner will have to replace Reid Forrest, who, in a league of excellent punters, averaged 45.4 yards.

Learn how to win

It's debatable how much this intangible is a challenge to a good season in Pullman. But with just five victories during the three Wulff years, the Cougars need to acquire — and fast — the habit of doing the right things when the game is decided.

Bud Withers