Gonzaga Basketball: Keys to success vs. BYU in 2019-20

SPOKANE, WASHINGTON - DECEMBER 18: Gonzaga Bulldogs t-shirts are draped over stadium seats prior to the game between the North Carolina Tar Heels and the Gonzaga Bulldogs at McCarthey Athletic Center on December 18, 2019 in Spokane, Washington. (Photo by William Mancebo/Getty Images) /

3 of 4

TUCSON, ARIZONA – DECEMBER 14: Petrusev/Tillie of the Bulldogs high five. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images) /

2. Dominate the glass.

Gonzaga is easily one of the best rebounding teams in the country. With an elite frontcourt and big guards, the Bulldogs consistently outwork their opponents on the glass and that has been evident throughout this season. Heading into this contest, Gonzaga ranks extremely high in both offensive (34.6%, 28th) and defensive (76.8%, 22nd) rebounding rate. Given this, it is reasonable to believe that the Bulldogs will look to throw their weight around underneath and exhibit a major advantage on the glass.

Considering BYU ranks 336th (out of 353 teams) in the nation in offensive rebounding rate itself, Gonzaga will likely surrender very few, if any, second-chance opportunities in this game. The Cougars are much better on the defensive glass (74.7%, 69th) but still might not be able to stop the Bulldogs from consistently securing their own misses and finishing in the paint/drawing fouls.

Gonzaga should absolutely own the rebounding margin in this game as that is the biggest statistical difference between these two squads. If this facet of the contest plays out as expected, it will be very difficult for BYU to hang around. In order to make that happen, though, the Bulldogs need to attack the glass with their usual fervor.

The most notable key contributions for Gonzaga in this facet of the game are Filip Petrusev and Drew Timme in the frontcourt. Additionally, Joel Ayayi and Ryan Woolridge are both all-around studs in the backcourt that rebound exceptionally well for their positions.

Yoeli Childs is the leading rebounder for BYU when healthy but the team otherwise works as a committee when he is out (such as he might be for this contest).