The Cougars have been erratic and haven't performed anywhere near their talent level, as they should be the second-best team in the WCC by a fairly wide margin. Pepperdine appears to be a program on the rise, but could be subject to a letdown Thursday following a tough road trip that included an upset of San Diego. Barring a flat spot, the Cougars should take care of business and pulla way in this one.