Football Guide 2018

DW

Wednesday, August 29 - Tuesday, September 4, 2018 • VOLUME 112 • ISSUE 2

UA FOOTBALL | 2018 SEASON PREVIEW

DAILYWILDCAT.COM

HEISMAN HOPEFUL KHALIL TATE

ALL EYES ON ME?

HE’S NOT ALONE...

...AND DON'T FORGET: THERE’S A NEW SHERIFF IN TOWN.

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A2 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2018

2018 Football Guide 3

Key players looking to dominate this season

4

A breakdown of the 2018 Arizona Football schedule

5

Tate looks to prove the hype

6

Arizona must seize its opportunity for success

7

The full 2018 Arizona Football team roster

8 10

This season’s offensive & defensive lineup Get to know Arizona’s football coaching staff

13

Yates expects great things from this year’s team

14

Top 10 teams entering the season

15

Season predictions from the DW sports desk

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On the Cover TOP: Khalil Tate (Photo by Heather Newberry, The Daily Wildcat), CENTER LEFT: Arizona Defense, September 2017 (Photo by Heather Newberry, The Daily Wildcat), CENTER: JJ Taylor (Photo by Heather Newberry, The Daily Wildcat), CENTER RIGHT: Shun Brown (Photo by Heather Newberry, The Daily Wildcat) BOTTOM: Kevin Sumlin (Photo by Simon Asher, The Daily Wildcat)

Football Guide • Fall 2018

BY ROB KLEIFIELD @RobKleifield

The Daily Wildcat • A3

‘CATS ON THE PROWL

Arizona Football has several key returning players on both sides of the ball, but there are just as many inexperienced players working to fill significant roles. Here’s a quick look at likely key contributors from each class whose performance throughout the season could dictate success or mediocrity for Sumlin’s squad in 2018

Junior – No. 14 Khalil Tate – Quarterback – 6 feet 2 inches, 215 pounds

Redshirt Junior – No. 52 PJ Johnson – Defensive Tackle – 6 feet 4 inches, 335 pounds 2017 Stats (At City College of San Francisco): 17 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 8.5 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble

2017 STATS: 62 percent completion 1,591 yards passing 1,411 yards rushing 9.2 yards per carry 26 total touchdowns

There might not be another player positioned to make as big of an impact in his first year with the Wildcats as PJ Johnson. The junior-college transfer dwarfs several of his defensive line teammates and is an immediate upgrade for Arizona’s weakest position group.

Johnson’s presence will certainly boost one of the Pac-12’s worst rushing defenses. His size and strength alone may be enough to require double-teams and to force opposing offenses to avoid the middle of the Wildcat defense. Johnson also boasts a toolbox of pass-rush moves and hand-fighting techniques that will make him a valuable asset on third down.

Defensive Coordinator Marcel Yates has been preaching the importance of an improved run defense for the duration of the off-season. With Johnson manning the nose or lined up in a 3-technique, the Wildcats hope to see an improvement in that department.

Sophomore – No. 1 Tony Fields II – Linebacker – 6 feet 1 inch, 230 pounds 2017 STATS: 104 total tackles (team high) 5 sacks 7.5 tackles for loss 1 interception Tate set the bar high for himself in 2017. Now, in his first full season as Arizona’s starting quarterback, he’ll look to confirm what many are already thinking: the Wildcats have a Heisman contender under center.

A year older and a year wiser, Tate’s journey appears to be headed towards a climax of sorts in 2018. With Kevin Sumlin at the helm in his first year as head coach and new Offensive Coordinator Noel Mazzone mentoring Tate, the Wildcats’ star quarterback is primed to have a monstrous junior campaign.

Although there will be several new bodies protecting Tate up front, the offensive line’s centerpiece, center Nathan Eldridge, remains intact. This season Tate said he will look more frequently to dissect defenses through the air.

The Wildcats’s offensive success may depend more on Tate’s individual performance than on the performance of players in any other position, but that’s exactly the way it should be when a player of Tate’s caliber lines up in the backfield.

He’s a game-changer, and the Wildcats will be counting on him to deliver in 2018.

Redshirt Freshman – No. 1 Drew Dixon – Wide Receiver – 6 feet 3 inches, 210 pounds 2016 Stats (At Sabino HS): 112 carries, 901 yards rushing, 47 receptions, 564 yards receiving, 35 total touchdowns In 2017, Dixon redshirted, spending the season playing on the scout team and adding weight to his lanky frame. This year he’ll have the opportunity to compete for a role catching passes out-wide. Arizona’s receiving corps isn’t as deep as in years prior, nor does it have a true No.1 threat on the edge, which bodes well for Dixon’s playing time.

Dixon offers the Wildcats much-needed size and jump-ball ability. If Dixon is able to take the next step in his game and see the field on Saturdays, he will become another weapon on a team looking to pass more this season.

Fifth-year receiver Shawn Poindexter has blossomed into one of Arizona’s top targets, likely because of his length and chemistry with Khalil Tate. Dixon provides the Wildcats with a similar size advantage. If the coaching staff feels comfortable enough with Dixon’s physicality getting off the line of scrimmage, then expect to see No. 1 catching passes on offense this season.

Redshirt Sophomore – No. 21 J.J. Taylor – Running Back – 5 feet 6 inches, 184 pounds 2017 STATS: 847 rushing yards 7 total touchdowns

Taylor’s role in 2018 will be instrumental to Arizona’s offensive success. Last season the diminutive running back flashed a quick burst out of the backfield, finishing second on the team in rushing yards. This season, due to the departure of senior costars Nick Wilson and Zach Green, Taylor should see an increase in playing time, as well as production.

In 2017 Taylor completed a pair of rushing performances of 100 yards.

With an uptick in offensive involvement, that number should increase this year.

The biggest question each week will be whether or not Taylor can handle the majority of running back totes.

Last season it was hard to find a more dominant freshman duo than linebackers Colin Schooler and Tony Fields II. Schooler ended up taking home more of the hardware, but Fields II’s 2017 contributions have not been overlooked.

Fields started every game for Arizona as linebacker, a rarity for a freshman, and by season’s end he had evolved into one of Arizona’s defensive leaders. With 104 tackles, he exceeded the performance of any UA freshman in over 20 years and ranked second in the Football Bowl Subdivision among all defensive freshmen.

From aligning the front line to signaling in coverage and pressures, Fields II flourished as the “quarterback” of the Wildcats’ defense. In 2017, Fields revealed his instincts to make plays from sideline to sideline and in opponent play recognition. He should continue to be one of the first helmets to the ball this fall.

“What’s the ceiling? I hope there is no ceiling,” Defensive Coordinator Marcel Yates said of the combination of Fields and Schooler.

Redshirt Senior – No. 58 Layth Friekh – Offensive Line – 6 feet 5 inches, 297 pounds 2017 Stats: Started all 13 games at LT and anchored 3rd-ranked rushing offense in nation, averaging 309.3 yards per game Friekh has been a stalwart along Arizona’s offensive line since starting nine contests in 2015. Although he’ll be absent for the Wildcats’ first two games this season, Friekh should return to the lineup in week three without missing a beat, having gained an extra year of eligibility.

When he does return to action against Southern Utah, Friekh will look to reestablish his dominance as Tate’s personal protector. Arizona is at its best on the ground when the offensive line eliminates the first line of defense and reaches the second level. Friekh’s athleticism allows him to double down on defensive tackles before putting his foot in the ground to drive block the nearest linebacker. During his absence, the Wildcats will be tested, especially in week two versus the Houston Cougars, led by Ed Oliver.

Senior – No. 17 Jace Whittaker – Cornerback – 5 feet 11 inches, 189 pounds 2017 STATS: 13 pass break-ups (team high) 3 interceptions 1 touchdown 46 total tackles

Other ball carriers, namely Nathan Tilford and Gary Brightwell, will look for valuable touches out of the backfield. Both are more imposing, physically, than Taylor.

In order to further distinguish himself from the competition, Taylor says he has been working on reaching that next gear since the end of last season.

There were several instances in 2017 when he was tackled from behind just yards away from the goal line.

Taylor will be the go-to back in 2018 if he can capitalize in the open field and finish his runs in the end zone.

Whittaker is one of the Wildcats’ most experienced defenders.

After demonstrating a knack for the big-play in 2017 Whittaker could have his most efficient season yet.

Based on his performance last season, Pro Football Focus ranked Whittaker as the Wildcats’s highestrated returning player ahead of the season; now it’s up to the senior to live up to the hype.

Despite playing for his third defensive backs coach in four years, Whittaker said this off-season that he feels comfortable with his role in Arizona’s defense. The feisty covercorner has shown growth with ball skills over the last three seasons and he’s made strides as a tackler in the open field. The Wildcats will rely on Whittaker’s experience in the secondary in 2018.

A4 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2018

THIS IS WILDCAT COUNTRY HOME GAMES IN BOLD

First year head coach and former Beaver QB Jonathan Smith inherits a 1-11 team.

Safety Jalen Moore returns as the team’s leading tackler.

UA Football Fall Schedule Sept. 1: vs. Brigham Young

Sept. 8: at Houston Sept. 15: vs. S. Utah Sept. 22: at Oregon St. Sept. 29: vs. USC Oct. 6: vs California Oct. 12: at Utah Oct. 20: at UCLA Oct. 27: vs. Oregon Nov. 2: vs. Colorado Nov. 17: at Washington St. Nov. 24: vs. ASU

WSU head coach Mike Leach will be trying to replace QB Luke Falk and ECU grad transfer Gardner Minshew II looks to be the leading candidate.

The No. 24 ranked Ducks introduce first year head coach Mario Cristobal.

Heisman-hopeful Justin Herbert will look to put on a show in Tucson.

QB Tyler Huntley and RB Zack Moss return to form a formidable backfield, with Huntley returning for his junior year and Moss leading the team in rushing yards last season.

BYU is coming off a disappointing 4-9 season in which four different quarterbacks saw playing time.

The Buffs won just two conference games last year but QB Steven Montez returns as the talented gunslinger with 3,992 passing yards in just two years in the program.

Justin Wilcox was 5-7 in his first season as the head coach. Cal returns last season’s starting QB, Ross Bowers.

South er an FC n Utah is Ss won t chool that he Confe Big Sky re seaso nce last n 9-3 re with a averag cord. SU e per ga d 34 points me la st yea r.

The Chip Kelly era has begun in Westwood.

Devon Modster is the only returning QB, but freshman Dorian ThompsonRobinson has the ideal qualities of a dual-threat QB for the offense Kelly runs.

Houston returns 10 starters including defensive standout, Ed Oliver. UA lost at home to Houston in 2017.

Arizona will look to win back the Territorial Cup after losing to the Sun Devils in Tempe last November.

UA and ASU both finished with 7-6 records in 2017.

Ranked at No. 15 in the AP preseason poll, USC is coming off an 11-3 season. The QB situation will be key for USC, as three players will have a shot at replacing Sam Darnold.

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Football Guide • Fall 2018

The Daily Wildcat • A5

SIMON ASHER | THE DAILY WILDCAT

KHALIL TATE 14 LOOKS to avoid two USC defenders during the Wildcat’s Nov. 4, 2017 game at the Coliseum in Los Angeles. The Wildcats lost the game 49-45, the first loss with Tate as starting quarterback.

The ‘Real Deal?’ Tate aims to thrill again COLUMN

BY DAVID SKINNER @DavidWSkinner_

W

e have all seen it. The upward angle photo sprawling across one of the country’s most prestigious sports magazines, known for its iconic and timeless covers. The latest edition is now being graced by Arizona’s own Khalil Tate.

He’s cocking his throwing arm, showing off the red number “14” on the front of his jersey. As he prepares for a season that will leave many defenders looking at the number on the back of his jersey, he also looks to make a run at the illustrious Heisman trophy this fall.

A Sports Illustrated cover was a pipe dream when Tate stepped on campus two years ago as a freshman, at the time ineligible to play due to a redshirt. Even as a 4-star recruit coming onto a team with only a handful of 4-star recruits, the expectations of Tate were met and have been exceeded in just the handful of games that Tate started last season. He took over for Brandon Dawkins in what was seen at the time as a desperation move by former head coach Rich Rodriguez in the middle of a season that was going nowhere fast.

The desperation move ended up being Arizona’s adrenaline shot to the heart; Tate pulled his fellow young and inexperienced Wildcats across the seasonal finish line, winning seven games and leading them to a bowl game.

Tate’s impression on the Pac-12 was felt then, but his official statement to the nation came on a fall night in Boulder. As Tate ran through, under and around Colorado, he ended the night with 327 yards on the ground, shattering the national record for rushing by a quarterback.

The highlight reels are well worn, but Tate’s legacy isn’t going to be the number of magazine covers he’s plastered on, nor the yardage that he amassed during his stay in Tucson. It will be how he takes on the sole leadership role for a team that has dealt with scandals and disappointment over the last year, to not only stablize the ship but also be able to lead it to and through uncharted waters.

Arizona football has had sporadic success in the last 20 years. The most successful seasons are usually followed by disappointing ones, undermining any kind of momentum past coaches have tried to muster.

When Tate walks out onto the field at Arizona Stadium with his teammates on Sept. 1, the 19-year-old junior will not only be carrying their hopes and dreams on his shoulder pads, but the future trajectory of the program he is playing for. No pressure.

Luckily for him, there are multiple examples in college football the last 20 years that display what kind of long-term impact a dynamic quarterback like Tate can have on a specific program — changing the complete image of an institution in just a handful of exciting nationally-televised games spread over a couple months.

For example, Michael Vick at Virginia Tech helped propel Frank Beamer’s program into a perennial top-25 team for a decade and a half after his electric run to the 2000 BCS Championship Game. Dennis Dixon made people all over the country comfortable with Oregon being a top-10 team year-in and year-out.

Robert Griffin III’s magical 2012 Heisman season helped change the entire outlook on Baylor’s football program, jump-starting their metamorphosis from Big 12 punchline into a program that was considered a top-5 team for consecutive years just a few short years ago. Furthermore, a guy named Johnny Manziel helped Texas A&M transition into a competitive SEC program with a Heisman campaign as a redshirt freshman.

The blueprint has been laid out for Tate by fellow groundbreaking dual-threat quarterbacks who have come before him. In just a couple days, Tate gets to show whether he will join those quarterbacks or fall by the wayside.

All eyes on Tate means more eyes on the University of Arizona. And with new indoor facilities being built, there is no better time for the Wildcats to strike, while interest and outside intrigue for Arizona’s program is at its highest in years.

Tate’s unpredictable and exciting play will have a heavy hand in determining Arizona’s unpredictable and exciting future as a program years after his playing days are over.

The entire country is on notice and will be watching. If Tate ends the season holding that bronze trophy in New York, expect those eyes to stick around a little longer.

‘OTHER’ NO. 14 LOOKS TO MAKE NAME FOR HIMSELF

BY DAVID SKINNER @DavidWSkinner_

Sharing a number with a teammate in college football is common, with programs across the country required to partake in the practice due to large rosters and limited two-digit number options on jerseys.

While some newer Arizona football fans may wonder how No. 14 never seems to take a play off, those who watch closely understand what is going on.

Arizona’s sophomore defensive standout Kylan Wilborn is one of two players who wear No. 14 for the Wildcats. Wilborn has worn that number since he stepped on the field as a Wildcat and racked up 7.5 sacks in his freshman campaign, but he just so happens to share No. 14 with another well-known player on the team — A quarterback named Khalil Tate, if the name rings a bell.

But Wilborn is looking to make a name for himself in his own right.

Playing the “stud” linebacker position for the Wildcats, his impressive freshman year garnered recognition in the form of Freshman All-American honors from the Football Writers Association of America and USA Today.

This numerical duality mentioned above is one that Arizona is likely glad to deal with. As the defensive No. 14 that often plays second fiddle to the offensive No. 14, Wilborn is one of the crucial cogs to a defense that is on the way up and loaded with young talent across positions.

“He’s a guy that understands it better,” Arizona defensive coordinator Marcel Yates said. “Where last year he was trying to understand the defense, now he’s focusing on what the offense is trying to do to attack us.”

Known for his excellent motor and relentlessness leading to gamechanging plays in the backfield, Wilborn’s freshman year consisted of many things common to a freshman season, including mistakes and lessons learned.

“Last year it was more of just, I know I have this assignment on this play, go out and do it. This year I’m understanding why,” Wilborn said. “It helps me a lot, especially when the offense does something we’re maybe not prepared for.”

Although sometimes overlooked by the linebacking duo of Colin Schooler and Tony Fields II, Wilborn is in position to build on his productive opening season.

With offenses having to plan around

HEATHER NEWBERRY | THE DAILY WILDCAT

ARIZONA’S KYLAN WILBORN 14 and Dereck Boles (99) walk off the field during the UA-Oregon State game on Nov. 11, 2017 at Arizona Stadium. Last season, Wilborn was named a Freshman All-American by the Football Writers Association of America and USA Today.

the two freshman All-Americans, Wilborn will have the opportunity to be the second number 14 on the team to take off around the edge and make a huge play.

With a full off-season with the defensive coordinator that recruited him under his belt, Wilborn is on his way to being a stalwart on defense.

The flashes of brilliance and dominance early in his career hopefully hint at further improvement.

If Wilborn can make the jump his coaches suggest he’s capable of, Pac12 teams will have to game-plan for a whole other No. 14.

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A6 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2018

THE TIME IS NOW FOR ARIZONA FOOTBALL A head coach with a promising past record, a quarterback ready to show Tucson what he can do and a strong, powerful defense sets the stage for this year to be a success — if the Wildcats can seize the moment quarterbacks over the years, including Drew Brees, Sam Bradford and Johnny Manziel. You can bet there will be a system in place that is geared toward maximizing Tate’s skill set.

There’s plenty to like about UA’s defense, too, even

COLUMN

BY ALEC WHITE @AlecWhite_UA

R

arely do stars align in the way they could for Arizona football this

year.

A star quarterback, a new head coach with a winning track record and an athletic defense equal the chance for a season that could be talked about for years to come in Tucson.

However, key components will only be in alignment for a short time, and the Wildcats can’t afford to waste the opportunity that sits in front of them.

Khalil Tate enters the season with more hype than any Arizona quarterback in recent memory. Sports Illustrated could have picked other Heisman-hopeful quarterbacks, like Will Grier at West Virginia University or University of Oregon’s dualthreat QB Justin Herbert, to be the face of their annual college football preview issue, but SI went with Tate.

That choice speaks volumes, not only for Tate’s dynamic ability but also for the national focus on Arizona’s football program.

Now the junior quarterback is paired with head coach Kevin Sumlin, a man who averaged 8.5 wins per year in the SEC over the last six seasons. Sumlin will be paraded down University Boulevard if he can average that with Arizona.

Sumlin has also worked with his share of elite college

“

However, it remains to be seen if they can take advantage of their position and create a season worth remembering. After all, success has a funny way of appearing suddenly and then vanishing before it can make an impact.

Just look back at the 2014 season when Arizona surprised the nation and won 10 games en route to the Pac-12 South Title. That was supposed to be the launching pad for perennial conference championship contention.

How quickly times change.

For this season of Arizona football, there must be a sense of urgency from the start. Arizona could find itself in a very different scenario next fall: Tate may very well decide to enter the NFL Draft in 2019, and Sumlin’s most successful season at his previous school came in the first year when he won 11 games.

Arizona has a legitimate shot to win the Pac-12 South this year AND have its first Heisman winner in program history. That’s a combination that’s been foreign to Tucsonans for quite some time.

Such opportunities don’t come often, and the time is now for the Wildcats to run with it.

though it ranked 10th in yards yielded per game in the Pac-12 Conference last year.

The Wildcats played four true freshman on the defensive line in 2017. Those “babies”, according to defensive coordinator Marcel Yates, have beefed up and are ready to fill in the gaps.

Colin Schooler, the Pac-12 freshman defensive player of the year for 2017, returns as does linebacker Kylan Wilborn, who was called “one of the best defensive players” in the conference by an anonymous Pac-12 coach this offseason. And don’t forget about experienced seniors like safety Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles and cornerback Jace Whittaker.

While the University of Southern California and the University of Utah are both prominent contenders in the Pac12 South Division, the opening of the season comes with no definitive stand-out.

The ingredients are there for the Wildcats to make HEATHER NEWBERRY | THE DAILY WILDCAT COURTESY CHRIS HOOK some noise in 2018.

The ingredients are there for the Wildcats to make some noise in 2018 ...

However, it remains to be seen if they can take advantage of their position.”

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Football Guide • Fall 2018

2018 Team Roster # 1 1 2 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 9 9 10 10 11 11 12 12 13 13 14 14 15 16 16 17 17 18 19 19 20 21 21 23 24 25 26 26 27 28 30 31 32 32 33 33 34 36 37 38 38 40 42 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 51 52 53 53 54 56 56 58 58 59 60 63 64 66 66 67 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 78 79 80 81 81 82 82 83 84 85 86 86 87 88 89 90 91 94 99

NAME Drew Dixon Tony Fields II Lorenzo Burns Jarrius Wallace Antonio Parks Rhett Rodriguez Brian Casteel Christian Young Shun Brown Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles Devaughn Cooper Colin Schooler Tim Hough Dayven Coleman Tony Ellison Malcolm Holland Jamarye Joiner K’Hari Lane Troy Young JB Brown Kevin Doyle Luke Ashworth Chacho Ulloa Khalil Tate Kylan Wilborn McKenzie Barnes Jake Glatting Will Gunnell Andrew Tovar Jace Whittaker Cedric Peterson Shawn Poindexter Scottie Young Jr. Darrius Smith Isaiah Hayes J.J. Taylor Gary Brightwell Rhedi Short Anthony Mariscal Matt Aragon Anthony Pandy Sammy Morrison Nazar Bombata Josh Pollack Tristan Cooper Terrence Johnson Santino Marchiol Blake Pfaff Nathan Tilford Jacob Colacion Chandler Gumbs Xavier Bell Malik Hausman Branden Leon Thomas Reid III Azizi Hearn Dylan Klumph Lucas Havrisik Kurtis Brown Issaiah Johnson Jimmy Banjoko-Wangjobe Rourke Freeburg Parker Henley Jalen Harris Josh McCauley Lee Anderson III Donald Reiter PJ Johnson Jon Jacobs Richard Merritt Bryson Cain Nick Reinhardt Rexx Tessler Layth Friekh Nahe Sulunga My-King Johnson Mykee Irving Steven Bailey Nathan Eldridge Geno Albini Robert Congel David Watson Tshiyombu Lukusa Abraham Maiava Edgar Burrola Tyrell Aponte Alex Kosinski Michael Eletise Cody Creason Donovan Laie Tyson Gardner Jake Peters Jalen Cochran Bryce Wolma Dante Blissit Zach Williams Jailen Bailey Thomas Marcus Jr. Jamie Nunley Justin Belknap Stanley Berryhill III Josh Szott Tre Adams Brice Vooletich Matt Thomas Finton Connolly Sione Taufahema Dereck Boles ROSTER COURTESY OF ARIZONA ATHLETICS

The Daily Wildcat • A7

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A8 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2018

A

#76 - RT Kosinsk i lex

Alex Kosinski played in 6 games as a backup last season but will start at right guard.

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Steven Bailey, a general studies major, played at NAU as a true freshman in 2016.

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#75 - LG

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#81 - TE

After starting tight end as a true freshman, Bryce Wolma had 28 receptions with 241 yards last season.

J.J. Taylor

After redshirting in 2016, Michael Eletise , a pre-family studies major, will be starting at left guard.

#21 - RB

Offense starting line up

J.J. Taylor was second on the team with 847 rushing yards.

He also tallied 7 touchdowns last season.

Tate quickly ascended into the national spotlight last Fall, becoming the first player in Pac-12 history to win the offensive player of the week award four consecutive weeks. Tate led all of college football with 9.2 yards per rush and led the Pac-12 in passing efficiency. The quarterback enters his junior year as one of the top Heisman candidates.

th Friek h Layth Friekh was Lay granted one more year of eligibility. He will start the season Sept. 15 against #58 - LT Southern Utah.

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#63 - C

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Jace Whittaker led the team with 13 passbreakups. He also had 3 interceptions last season.

Colin Schooler #7 - LB

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#74 - RG

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Schooler was named Pac-12 Defensive Freshman Player of the Year after a stellar first season in Tucson.

The Dana Point, Calif. native recorded 95 tackles in 2017, including a season-high 14 in a double-overtime win at Cal. Schooler’s 13.5 tackles for loss led all FBS freshman defenders.

in Belkna ust Justin Belknap, a six-footthree redshirt #1 - LB sophomore, recorded 23 #86 - DE W n i a l b l tackles last season, or Ky Kylan Wilborn led with 3 tackles for the Pac-12 with 4 a loss. forced fumbles and ohnson was named AllP.J. J P.J. Johnson American by USA accumulated Today last season. #14 - STUD LB 17 tackles while playing for City College of San #52 - DT Francisco last season. e Taufahe ion Sione Taufahema played at College of the Canyons before UA and picked up 52 #94 - DT tackles.

Shun Brown led the team with 521 receiving yards in 2016 and was tied for third with 8 total touchdowns.

Cody Creason, an accounting major, played in Arizona’s most productive running game ever.

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Tony Fields II was named a Freshman All-American by ESPN.com and led the team with 104 tackles last season.

Isaiah Hayes had 38 total tackles during the 2016 season but had to sit out 2017 for a shoulder injury.

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The Daily Wildcat • A9

a

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Demetrius FlanniganFowels tied for third on the team with 81 tackles last season.

Football Guide • Fall 2018

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A10 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2018

LEADERS OF THE ‘WILD PACK’

BY ROB KLEIFIELD @RobKleifield

Arizona football’s coaching staff has been set since January. When Kevin Sumlin was hired to replace Rich Rodriguez, it was expected there would be a change of culture. Although the successes or failures weigh heaviest on Sumlin, there still needs to be accountability at each level. Arizona’s assistant coaches play as significant a role in shaping young men and defining the narrative of the program. For those who haven’t gotten to know the new (and old) Wildcat coaches ahead of the 2018 season, this can serve as a helpful guide.

NOEL MAZZONE OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR/ QUARTERBACKS

KEVIN SUMLIN HEAD COACH/ TIGHT ENDS

COURTESY UA ATHLETICS

COURTESY UA ATHLETICS

An offensive coordinator must have an integral relationship with the head coach. That’s why Mazzone’s experience working alongside Sumlin — first on Minnesota’s staff in the early 1990s, and most recently as Sumlin’s offensive coordinator at Texas A&M — bodes well for the Wildcats. Before joining Sumlin at A&M, Mazzone served as UCLA’s offensive coordinator from 2012-2015.

Yates also has prior experience coaching under Sumlin — he served as a co-coordinator for the Texas A&M Aggies from 2012-13. Yates’ defense has key returning starters at each position for the first time since his arrival in 2016. The one thing Yates doesn’t have any more of? Time. Entering his third season in charge of Arizona’s defense, Yates knows that this season will determine his fate as the team’s defensive coordinator moving forward.

COURTESY UA ATHLETICS

When Sumlin’s name is mentioned, it’s hard not to think of Johnny Football. At Texas A&M, Sumlin and Johnny Manziel rose to prominence together. Although Arizona’s 32nd head coach has a history of developing a dual-threat quarterback into a Heisman trophy winner, Sumlin’s past success is much more expansive. Entering his first year in charge, Sumlin might be inheriting the most talented team of his career. With Heisman hopeful Khalil Tate behind center, a nucleus of offensive skill-players in place and a promising young defense, Sumlin should be the X-factor Arizona was in desperate need of last season.

COURTESY UA ATHLETICS

MARCEL YATES DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR/ LINEBACKERS

JOE GILBERT ASSISTANT COACH/OFFENSIVE LINE

IONA UIAGALELEI ASSISTANT COACH/DEFENSIVE LINE

Gilbert returns to the collegiate landscape after spending the last six seasons serving as an offensive line coach for the Indianapolis Colts. Arizona’s rushing attack has been solid over the last three seasons, but it has yet to reach maximum potential. The 2018 Wildcats boast the nation’s top rushing quarterback, a collection of rising stars in the backfield and an offensive line that lacks experience but offers plenty in the strength and size department.

In addition to mentoring a number of future pros, such as former Seahawk and current Raider Bruce Irvin, Uiagalelei has formed key relationships with players of Polynesian descent. As much as it will be his job to ensure his defensive linemen are conditioned and prepared for game day, Uiagalelei will also be responsible for restoring the Polynesian pipeline, a facet of Arizona’s recruiting that was lost during the Rich-Rod era.

COURTESY UA ATHLETICS

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Football Guide • Fall 2018

The Daily Wildcat • A11

COACHES CORNER FROM PAGE A10

CLARENCE MCKINNEY ASSOCIATE HEAD COACH/ RUNNING BACKS

THERON AYCH ASSISTANT COACH/INSIDE RECEIVERS

In 2008 McKinney joined Sumlin’s staff at the University of Houston. He served as the running backs coach and recruiting coordinator for four seasons for the Cougars until Sumlin headed two hours north to College Station, and McKinney followed suit. In 2016 Texas A&M became a force to be reckoned with on the ground, averaging 211.8-yards per contest. Entering his first season as Arizona’s running backs coach, McKinney has plenty of talent to work with.

Aych joined Rich Rodriguez’s coaching staff in 2017.

He was one of just three coaches retained when Sumlin was hired in January. Prior to Arizona, Aych spent one season leading the UTEP Miners receiving corps. From 2011-15 he made a name for himself with offensive wizardry at Division II Angelo State. In Aych’s five seasons as offensive coordinator for the Rams and assistant head coach, he dialed up one high-powered offense after another. In his final season Aych was named a finalist for the Division II American Football Coaches Association Assistant Coach of the Year award.

COURTESY UA ATHLETICS

COURTESY UA ATHLETICS

DEMETRICE MARTIN ASSISTANT COACH/ CORNERBACKS

TAYLOR MAZZONE ASSISTANT COACH/OUTSIDE RECEIVERS

Entering his first season with the Wildcats, Martin brings extensive Pac-12 experience to the table. He’s highly regarded on the recruiting circuit and has helped numerous defensive backs take their talents to the NFL. In 2014, four of Martin’s defensive backs earned All-Pac-12 accolades. In 2016, UCLA’s pass defense was ranked as the top unit in the Pac-12.

The son of offensive coordinator Noel Mazzone, Taylor followed his father from the Midwest where he spent the last two years as an offensive quality control coach at Texas A&M. Entering his first season as a designated position coach, the younger Mazzone will bring energy and intelligence to the Wildcats’ outside receivers.

COURTESY UA ATHLETICS

COURTESY UA ATHLETICS

JOHN RUSHING ASSISTANT COACH/SAFETIES

JEREMY SPRINGER SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR

Before returning to the collegiate ranks in 2017 as Oregon State’s safeties coach, Rushing spent the better half of the last decade bouncing between NFL teams. From 2009-16 Rushing worked primarily as an offensive assistant for the Green Bay Packers.

When Sumlin hired Rushing to coach Arizona’s safeties in 2018, it was a justifiable move. Rushing has a wealth of NFL knowledge. In recent years Arizona football has produced a pair of safeties selected in the NFL draft. That trend has the chance to continue with rising senior Demetrius FlanniganFowles.

Upon Sumlin’s move to the desert, Springer withdrew his name as Kansas’ next special teams coach to take the next step of his coaching career in the Pac12. Springer has spent the offseason, and fall camp, focusing on improving the third phase of Arizona’s performances. Sumlin clearly took note of Springer’s progress under the guidance of Banks while at A&M. The former college quarterback-turned-linebacker brings relentless energy and passion to the practice field each day.

COURTESY UA ATHLETICS

COURTESY UA ATHLETICS

QUICK FOOTBALL FACTS

CHUCK CECIL SENIOR DEFENSIVE ANALYST Cecil doesn’t need an introduction in Wildcat country.

One of Arizona’s top defensive players in program history, he also set the standard for walk-ons. Cecil’s playing career was the epitome of an underdog story, as the undersized, walking “hit-stick” earned AllAmerican honors while at Arizona and enjoyed a seven-year career in the pros after. Everywhere Cecil went, he went with a chip on his shoulder the size of a pancake, and eventually his undying determination to be the best propelled him to a life full of reward.

COURTESY UA ATHLETICS

• 10 new assistants hired in Jan. 2018 • 3 returning assistants • Kevin Sumlin career coaching record 86-43 • Seven home games, five road games this season CARMEN VALENCIA | THE DAILY WILDCAT

A UA FOOTBALL HELMET sits on a press conference table.

A12 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2018

SIMON ASHER | THE DAILY WILDCAT

ARIZONA SAFETY DEMETRIUS FLANNIGANFOWLES (6) jumps and catches a ball in warmups before the UA-Utah game on Sept. 22, 2017 at Arizona Stadium. Flannigan-Fowles tied for third on the team with 81 tackles last season.

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Football Guide • Fall 2018

The Daily Wildcat • A13

Yates hopes third year’s the charm

BY DAVID SKINNER @DavidWSkinner_

The Arizona Wildcats defense allowed opponents to convert on third downs 46 percent of the time in 2017. That inability to get off the field left Arizona’s youthful and inexperienced defense exposed for much longer periods of time, with the fast-paced offense waiting on the sideline.

This daunting third-down stat is one of the deciding factors in whether the Wildcats can transform themselves from a turnstile defense that relied on an offensive dynamo quarterback a year ago into a unit that can at least compliment the ‘Cats offense.

The combination of long defensive drives with a no-huddle offense, which Rich Rod preferred, left Yates’ unit often gassed and overextended, This lead to borderline helpless showings that saw the ‘Cats give up 49 points to USC, 48 to Oregon, 44 to Cal and 42 to ASU last year.

Despite this, there is a growing sense of optimism in the program that the Wildcat defense will be able to hold their own this year. Year three under defensive coordinator Marcel Yates could turn out to be the most encouraging one yet.

The Wildcats have a linebacking core of sophomores Tony Fields II and Colin Schooler that Yates is expecting to wreck havoc on opposing Pac-12 offenses.

“What’s the ceiling? I hope there is no ceiling. They had a really good freshman year. They made plays,” Yates said. “I think they’re having a better understanding of the defense, what we’re trying to do, just from watching film, watching games that they played, seeing all the good things they did but also the bad things they did.”

Fields II, a Freshman All-American last season, agreed with his coach’s assessment.

“We know exactly what we have to do because [Yates] touches on everything,” Fields said. “He tells us when the corner’s messed up and things like that. So, we know everybody’s responsibility on the field now.”

Yates is helping a young group through their growing pains, and those pains sometimes end up as points on the scoreboard for the opposing team. But the ‘Cats said they feel they are starting to turn the right corner.

“All those guys, they go from trying to learn the defense to trying to learn, ‘OK, how is the offense going to attack us?’

Which is a huge difference,” Fields II said.

“

SIMON ASHER | THE DAILY WILDCAT

ARIZONA HEAD FOOTBALL COACH Kevin Sumlin (left) and defensive coordinator Marcel Yates (right) watch the UA football team warm up before a scrimmage on Saturday, April 7 in Arizona Stadium in Tucson, Ariz. Yates is in his third year as the head of Arizona’s defense.

The two middle anchors, Fields II and Schooler, figure to play a key role again this year, but they’ll need help from some of the other players on the field.

A bulked up defensive line, injected with “beef” according to Yates, may help do the trick.

“The biggest difference this year is that we’ve got a couple more linemen, like PJ Johnson and Mykee Irving,” Fields said.

“That was a problem for us last year. Our gaps opened up a lot ... Now that we have depth, it’ll be a lot different.”

Taking a few years to build the defense was Yates’ plan all along. With the players he recruited the last two to three years growing into their roles as team leaders, it’s starting to become the group he envisioned when he packed his bags and came to Tucson from Boise State.

“I gave myself a certain amount of time when I came in here in ’16 and I kind of looked under the hood,” Yates said. “I said three or four years would be enough time to recruit the right kind of guys.”

Now in his third year, Yates is on the verge of seeing the fruits of his labors during his time in Tucson start to bloom.

COURTESY STAN LIU, ARIZONA ATHLETICS

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR MARCEL YATES winds up to throw a pass during practice on Aug. 23, 2016.

Yates, who came to UA from Boise State before the 2016 season, is looking forward to seeing progress from the defensive unit.

I gave myself a certain amount of time when I came in here in ‘16 and I kind of looked under the hood. I said three or four years would be enough time ...” — Marcel Yates

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A14 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2018

AP PRESEASON TOP 10

BY DAN PHILIPSBORN @DailyWildcat

University of Alabama Crimson Tide The Crimson Tide are coming off its fifth Nation Championship title in the past nine years. Yet, that wasn’t the most relevant storyline in Bama’s offseason. Instead it was the quarterback controversy between dual-threat junior Jalen Hurts and National Championship hero Tua Tagovailoa. The week one starter has yet to be named but head coach Nick Saban will likely do just fine with either guy.

Clemson University Tigers The Tigers are another elite program dealing with quarterback competition. Head coach Dabo Swinney must decide between senior Kelly Bryant and inexperienced yet talented freshman Trevor Lawrence. Regardless of which direction it goes, Clemson will hope to make it to the College Football Playoff for the fourth consecutive year.

University of Wisconsin-Madison Badgers

University of Georgia Bulldogs

class

It was nothing short of a heartbreaking 26-23 overtime loss for Georgia in the National Championship against their SEC rival, Alabama. Six Bulldogs proceeded to go pro in April, including defensive leader Roquan Smith. It is difficult to replace talent on both sides of the ball, but the Bulldogs managed to coalesce a talented recruiting this year, signing seven 247Sports five-star recruits.

Ohio State University Buckeyes OH – Uh-oh? Head coach Urban Meyer and athletic director Gene Smith are both currently suspended the first three games of the season regarding to the domestic assault allegations between former assistant coach Zach Smith and his ex-wife Courtney Smith.

Next year’s potential No. 1 pick, Nick Bosa, stands to have a big year, but will outside drama doom the Buckeyes?

The Badgers were one of the best teams last season but a loss against Ohio State left it just short from the College Football Playoffs. Heisman-hopeful running back Jonathan Taylor is coming off a successful freshman campaign, where he rushed for 1,977 yards and 13 touchdowns.

University of Washington Huskies There are no qualms that Jake Browning, the first four-year starter in Huskies history, has the talent and experience to make the Huskies a true title contender this season.

Browning will look to have a season much like the outbreak he had as a sophomore, where he won Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year and throwing for 43 TD’s and 9 Int (167.5 passing rating).

University of Miami Hurricanes University of Oklahoma Sooners The Sooners were one of the most exciting teams in football last season, with Heisman Trophy winner Baker Mayfield under center. Now, junior Kyler Murray is coming in to try to maintain their high-powered offense. Appearing in the College Football Playoffs twice in the past three years, the program has high expectations for this season.

Auburn University Tigers Nine Auburn players were named preseason All-SEC (none first-team). Heisman hopeful quarterback Jarrett Stidham will need to help guide his team to wins over Alabama (week 13), Georgia (week 11) and Washington (week one) if Auburn wants to go the distance.

Last season indicated “The U” was back after having an impressive 10-3 record. What separates Miami’s defense from others is its highly talented linebacking duo, consisting of Shaquille Quarterman and Michael Pinckney.

Add in defensive back Jaquan Johnson to the mix and the Miami Turnover Chain will be seen plenty of times this year.

Pennsylvania State University Nittany Lions Penn State hasn’t lost at home the past two years and only has one considerably tough game on the road (Michigan). Its schedule and all-around depth is what could ultimately separate this team in the top-heavy Big Ten. Having a top quarterback in Trace McSorley under center will help, too.

Football Guide • Fall 2018

The Daily Wildcat • A15

Staff Predictions Our football beat writers give their thoughts on Arizona’s upcoming season and predict the Wildcats’ win/loss record

SPORTS EDITOR ALEC WHITE @AlecWhite_UA

T

he Kevin Sumlin era gets started with a bang. Khalil Tate improves his passing and, of course, still electrifies with his legs, combining for 40+ touchdowns and an invite to New York City for the Heisman Trophy ceremony. The running game ends top three in the conference as J.J. Taylor, Nathan Tilford and Gary Brightwell form a three-headed monster in the backfield. The defense bends but doesn’t break, and keeps games from reaching shootout status. The biggest question mark is the offensive line. If it is unable to keep Tate upright, it could throw a wrench into the season. Nonetheless, Arizona has key wins against the University of Houston, the University of Oregon and Arizona State University, finishing the season second in the Pac-12 South.

HEATHER NEWBERRY | THE DAILY WILDCAT

RECORD: 93

ARIZONA FOOTBALL PLAYERS RUN out before the start of the UA-Houston football game on Sept. 9, 2017 at Arizona Stadium. UA opens the 2018 season vs BYU on Sept. 1.

SPORTS EDITOR DAVID SKINNER @DavidWSkinner_

A

rizona is coming off an off-season where the entire football program went through an HGTV-esque makeover. Even though Chip and Joanna Gaines of “Fixer Upper” fame weren’t tearing out the old and installing the new pieces, Arizona took a page out of the power couple’s book, removing the unnecessary and building around the strong points. But even with Kevin Sumlin and his new staff on board, are the flashy new additions going to be what helps Arizona reach 10 wins and a Pac-12 South title right away? I’m not so sure. I think nine wins is in the picture, but 10 wins and above seems like a tall order for a first year coach, a quarterback with less than a season of starting experience and a defense that was one of the worst in the conference a season ago.

CARMEN VALENCIA | THE DAILY WILDCAT

ARIZONA RUNNING BACK J.J. Taylor (21) runs toward the endzone during the UA-UCLA game on Oct. 13, 2017 at Arizona Stadium. Taylor will be a redshirt sophomore in 2018.

RECORD: 93

ANALYIST

ROB KLEIFIELD @RobKleifield

I

f Arizona plays up to its potential in September, then Kevin Sumlin could realistically eye a 10-win season in his first year as the Wildcats’ head coach. Handling Houston in week two might be a bigger challenge than last season, despite Tate not starting in 2017, because Arizona’s starting offensive line this season will be so inexperienced. The Cougars’ alleverything defensive tackle, Ed Oliver, will be Arizona’s toughest player to defend right out of the gates. Sumlin’s success in his inaugural season will be determined by a number of factors, none greater, however, than the Wildcats’ improvements on the defensive side of the ball. I predict Arizona will live up to the hype and steal that elusive tenth victory in the final game of the regular season versus its biggest rival, putting the ‘Cats right on the cusp of a Pac-12 Championship game berth.

SIMON ASHER | THE DAILY WILDCAT

RECORD: 102

VOTE D

ARIZONA WIDE RECEIVER SHUN Brown (6) dodges through USC defense. Brown is a senior this season.

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Football Guide • Fall 2018

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