After making the playoffs for the first time since 1985, Lafayette rides a huge wave of momentum into tonight’s Class 4 sectional matchup with Lincoln Prep at Civic Arena. The Fighting Irish will undoubtedly own home-court advantage, but will they be able to handle the Tigers’ quick guards like last time?

Here are a few subplots to watch out for if you’re headed downtown tonight:

Can the Irish bottle up the Tigers again?

In a 56-45 win at the end of January, Lafayette consistently hounded Beaumont Beasley and Deron Lloyd – Lincoln Prep’s primary outside threats – and allowed them few open looks from beyond the 3-point arc. But when Beasley’s shots aren’t falling early, he’s not afraid to step back and take a few NBA-range treys, which he’s shown the ability to hit.

As long as Lafayette’s guards can play with a similar intensity – contesting shots and limiting dribble penetration – the Irish could hold Lincoln Prep to under 50 points again.

Which Lafayette team will show up to play?

Following an emotional win against Benton, Lafayette came out and dropped a goose egg in the first quarter against Smithville.

After running and gunning to a huge lead against the Cardinals, the Irish showed their diversity in style by grinding out the win with success in their half-court sets. Granted, Lafayette shouldn’t struggle in the paint without a dominant post presence like Johnny Coy or Andrew Jones blocking the way, but another slow start could be disastrous.

Will Cody Miller continue to play a factor?

Miller, a junior guard, came out of nowhere and lit up Benton in the district semifinals for 23 points on six 3-pointers. He hit four more 3s against Smithville in the title game.

While senior Bryce McCrary still has to be considered the go-to deep threat for the Irish, Miller proved himself to be more than a one-game wonder. He also provides his team the added luxury of a reliable No. 2 option should McCrary struggle to get going.

What role, if any, will coach Chris Neff’s emotions play?

Lafayette’s first-year coach conducts himself an obvious passion that spills over into his players. When his team hit a lull against Benton during the second regular season tilt, Neff blustered his way to a technical – which helped rouse the Lafayette from a shooting funk.

The Irish are at their best when their emotions are running high and can channel them into productivity. The same goes for their coach.

Will Bryston Williams keep his dunk streak alive?

The junior sent his home court into hysterics in each of the Irish’s three district wins by throwing down two-handed monster slams. For somebody who hadn’t rattled the rim in regulation before last week, Williams’ high-flying moves are becoming routine. But will he take it to the next level and break out a tomahawk dunk for the playoffs? Just make sure to pay attention if he’s all alone on a breakaway tonight. You’ll probably be sorry if you don’t.