Myles Johnson a major key in order for Rutgers Basketball to upset Houston

Keep Myles Johnson in bubble wrap

This key may actually be more relevant pregame than it will be come tip-off time. But Myles Johnson likely holds the key to a Rutgers victory and the team will need him to be healthy Sunday night.

Johnson was getting banged around throughout the contest with Clemson. At one point, he appeared to hurt his back. At another, his ankle. Trainers were glued to the big man all night long.

Despite all that, Johnson managed to make it through the game in one piece. Better yet, all indications are that he’ll be suiting up on Sunday, which is good because he could be a real difference-maker in this match-up.

Houston is skilled in a lot of different areas, but size is not one of them. They don’t have any players on the roster that are taller than 6-foot-8. It allows the Cougars to play with pace, but establishing themselves on the inside isn’t always an easy task.

Houston’s aggressiveness could leave Johnson vulnerable to foul trouble, though. Johnson will need to do his best to avoid fouls in the early minutes.

Johnson is better known for his defensive acumen than his offensive skill. Against Houston, he can establish himself on both ends – so long as he’s healthy.