The Western Kentucky coach, a four-time national champion at the NAIA and Division II levels, has typically fielded teams that pride themselves on defense and toughness.
His current Hilltoppers seem to frequently lack both, perhaps never more evident than Sunday's 94-76 loss at Marshall.
"I've never had a team that this is the issue," Harper said. "Ninety-four points? I mean, c'mon. You're not winning giving up 94 points. It's just not happening. I understand we have some youth, and I understand we have some young guys, but we'll find the right combination."
Harper said in the preseason he believed that physicality and toughness would again be the hallmarks of this team.