1 Stop Aaron Nixon: Nixon, the Big West Conference player of the year, plays guard but is built like a strong safety. The 6-foot-2, 219- pound senior averages 18.6 points a game and is at the point of attack for the 49ers. UT coach Bruce Pearl says the Vols will defend Nixon by committee. Nixon will use his strength to post up smaller defenders or his quickness to go around slower ones and either get to the rim or dish to shooters on the perimeter. Dane Bradshaw will see some duty on Nixon, as will Ramar Smith and JaJuan Smith.

2 Show up in the paint: Wayne Chism, below left, at 6-9, is three inches taller than Long Beach's tallest starter so for once the Vols are not at a size disadvantage. Chism and Duke Crews have to forget they are freshmen in their first NCAA tournament game and be productive around the glass. Chism was a non-factor in the SEC tourney loss to LSU. This is an opportunity to make amends. Forget the 3-point shots and do some damage inside, especially if Long Beach concentrates its defense on limiting open looks on the perimeter.

3 Get Lofton going: This should be one of the highest-scoring first-round games in the bracket. It's essential that Chris Lofton, right, gets his share of points and maybe a few more. Lofton will be relieved to know that Long Beach State doesn’t appear to have a true defensive stopper — a la LSU’s Garrett Temple — in the lineup. UT isn't sure how Long Beach will guard Lofton but it will likely be a rotation. No. 5 could have a big game. Make that No. 5 better have a big game.