AFC Bournemouth
The Cherries visit Selhurst Park on the back of defeat in their opening two league games, but will be buoyed by the four points they took from the Eagles last term.
"We had two tough games against them last season," explained Howe.
"There wasn’t much between us and them in those games. They have recruited well so we know they will be organised and difficult to beat.
"Every game in this league is so tight and there doesn’t tend to be much between the sides - one moment can change a game.
"We’ve been on the wrong end of that twice already this season, so we need to make sure we are on the right side come Saturday. We have to make sure our best selves turn up to the game."
The Cherries chalked off their first win of the season earlier this week with a 2-1 victory away against Morecambe in the EFL Cup.
VIEW THE HIGHLIGHTS FROM WEDNESDAY'S WIN ON YOUTUBE HERE.
And Howe, who was pleased with his side's performance in that game, admits it could now give him a selection headache ahead of Saturday.
"It was good to win in cup," the manager continued.
"It was a tough game and a long day, it wasn’t one for purists but the boys showed a good mentality to get through and that’s the main thing.
"Naturally a few of the players did well in the game - we were pleased with a number of them who looked good fitness wise, so it all adds to the tough decisions I have to make every game - we have a large squad.
"Of course we wanted to go through in the cup but we still want the first league win, that’s still the priority."
In case you missed it, AFC Bournemouth under-21s midfielder Ben Whitfield has joined League Two Yeovil Town on loan.
