Football Guide 2017: Calm before the storm

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Wednesday, August 30, 2017

FOOTBALL GUIDE | 2017

CALM BEFORE THE STORM

Lightning is sure to strike Arizona Stadium in one way or another, as 2017 seems every bit a make-or-break season for head coach Rich Rodriguez and his UA football program @DAILYWILDCAT @WILDCATSPORTS

Brandon Dawkins takes the reigns of the Arizona offense | B6

Wildcats will face two Heisman candidates this season| B8

Looking at both sides of the line for Arizona Football | B12-B13

B2 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2017

REBECCA NOBLE/THE DAILY WILDCAT

WASHINGTON RUNNING BACK MYLES Gaskin is derailed by Arizona free safety Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles during Arizona’s overtime 35-28 loss to Washington in Arizona Stadium on Sept. 24, 2016.

Flannigan-Fowles optimistic about season Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles was named Pac-12’s top playmaking safety last season and is hopeful that the Wildcats will bounce back after last season

BY SYRENA TRACY

@syrena_tracy

Arizona football junior safety Demetrius FlanniganFowles turned out to be one of the standouts on the Arizona defense last season, despite the lack of success from the team.

According to Pro Football Focus, Flannigan-Fowles was named the Pac-12’s top playmaking safety, along with the second best returning player in pass coverage.

“It is a great feeling [being top safety], but I also look at it as we didn’t get a lot of wins last year, and if I am able to take the back seat and get wins, then I’d rather take that

route,” Flannigan-Fowles said.

Coming off a rough season, critics have been pointing to the defense as to why the team did poorly, but FlanniganFowles has been preparing for this season to prevent from repeating the past.

“To prepare, I’m watching a lot of film,” FlanniganFowles said, “and making sure I’m staying in shape and keeping myself focused.”

Learning from fellow players, including Paul Magloire Jr. last season and other prospects, Flannigan-Fowles knows that there are high expectations for this season and for his future NFL chances, but he is focusing more on himself.

“You never know what goes on in the world,” FlanniganFowles said. “I am just looking to be the best person I can

be. You never know what goes on in the NFL world, so I am sure they have high expectations, but you just never know. It is like a guessing game; you can’t really predict where you are going to be. Right now, I am really focusing on playing ball.”

Being a local Tucsonan, many people and children see Flannigan-Fowles as a role model in the community.

Transferring from Tucson High to Mountain View, Flannigan-Fowles was ruled ineligible to play his senior year by the Arizona Interscholastic Association. Already committed to his hometown school, Arizona kept their offer until Flannigan-Fowles was ruled eligible to play by

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Football Guide • Fall 2017

The Daily Wildcat • B3

Pro Baseball to Arizona football The Wildcat's newest quarterback, Donavan Tate left behind the MLB to tackle a new chapter in his life, Arizona football show that I can do the same stuff they’re doing.” Tate said.

“It’s been fun, but I don’t want to get caught up in planning After a six-year professional the future or looking too far baseball career, freshman ahead. I’m just enjoying the quarterback Donavan Tate’s process right now. I’m here to transition from the diamond to help in whatever fashion, even the football field was risky.

The 26-year-old hasn’t played if it’s with scout team. I’m just here to learn more and help organized football in eight the team get better every day.” years; his last game was in The adjustment Tate has 2009 at Clarenceville High in made to the gridiron isn’t all Georgia, where he finished as due to athletic ability; in fact, an ESPN Top 100 recruit before most of it has been mental. being drafted third overall in “I have to learn the game the Major League Baseball draft again,” Tate said, “and by the San Diego Padres. everybody’s been super However, Tate’s natural helpful to me, answering all athleticism has helped him my questions.” stand out Tate’s efforts as during camp a student the this year.

“I have to game haveofnot “He’s an learn the game gone unnoticed. athletic, tough again and During Pacguy. He’s 12 media day everybody’s not afraid to been super Rodriquez stated stick his face Tate was an in there," helpful to me, that “inquisitive” guy. said Arizona answering all my Last year’s starting football head questions.” quarterback coach Rich Brandon Dawkins Rodriguez.

—DONAVAN also commented “I don’t know if he ever ran TATE, on Tate’s into a catcher Arizona football mentality: “I’m there trying or tried to Quarterback to help him out as break up a much as I can, but double play, he’s just being a but he had sponge,” Dawkins about six or said. “That’s all seven of those the other day. you can ask for him to do is be I’m excited about him.” a sponge, absorb everything Tate’s rapid adjustment to you can and just learn.”

Rodriguez’s offense, along with After this year’s camp, his physical attributes, has comparisons between Tate launched him into the starting and other successful baseballquarterback discussion. playing quarterbacks of “He can definitely compete his kind, like Chris Weinke for it,” Rodriguez said. “He’s and Brandon Weeden, have a grown man, and we coach already been made. However, him like a grown man. He’s got despite all the attention his some skills.” past career has brought, Tate So far, Tate has enjoyed is still just thankful to have the challenging the other opportunity to play football quarterbacks during practice, here at Arizona. but despite being a key “It feels good to have component in Rodriguez’s somebody believe in you, even reformed offense, he doesn’t at this age,” Tate said, “and to feel much pressure to be starter. just have a chance to go out “I can compete with these there and play again.”

18-, 19- and 20-year-old’s and

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“

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DONAVAN TATE PLAYING FOR the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes in 2016, he was selected third overall in the MLB draft by the San Diego Padres.

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FRESHMAN QUATERBACK DONAVAN TATE (15) during week two of football practice for the 2017 season.

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B4 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2017

REBECCA NOBLE/THE DAILY WILDCAT

WILBUR WILDCAT CROWD SURFS in the ZonaZoo early on during Arizona's 34-10 loss to Stanford at Arizona Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016.

Football game day essentials Arizona football is getting ready to kick off, and to prepare yourself for this upcoming season, here are a few game day essentials to make the season just a little bit better The Wildcat Walk

BY SYRENA TRACY @syrena_tracy

Arizona’s most well-known tradition is the Wildcat Walk, where fans that are tailgating and getting ready for the game are able to cheer on the team before they start warming up.

The players get dropped off at Cherry Avenue and University Boulevard, where they meet up with the band and cheer team to make their way down the Mall.

Zona Zoo A sea of red and blue will fill the east side of the stands as students stand shoulder-to-shoulder, screaming and jumping around, hoping to get their face on the Jumbotron. There is no sitting in the ZonaZoo, so be prepared to be on your feet the whole game.

Following along to the cheerleader’s chants, students’ voices echo through the stadium, screaming “A-R-I-Z-O-N-A.” Before you know it, fireworks shoot up into the air and the Arizona football team runs out of the tunnel.

Tailgating

Hit Squad

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ARIZONA WIDE RECEIVER TREY Griffey (5) makes his final grand entrance to Arizona Stadium before Arizona's 56-35 win against ASU on Nov. 25, 2016.

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Zona Sway The Zona Sway is fairly new as it was introduced during the 2014 football season.

After the coin toss, students grab shoulders, sway back and forth and sing “Zo-na” in sync together.

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As the Arizona offense tries to move closer to the end zone, they keep trying to gain 10 or more yards. If they do so, they earn an “Arizona first down.”

When the team earns a first down, all of the student section throws their right arm into the air and throws it in the direction the team is headed, signaling a first down.

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When Arizona kicks off, members of the ZonaZoo pound their forearms together to House of Pain’s “Jump Around.” This student tradition has caught on so much that most of the stadium does it as well.

It even makes appearances at other UA sporting events when the song comes on.

Rise and shine! It’s game day and fans are not waiting around to get suited up in their Wildcat gear. Down at the UA Mall, students and fans set up their popups, fire up their grills and load up the ice chests to get ready for an eventful day of tailgating.

Despite the heat, fans’ laughter and conversations will fill the air as they play corn hole and take selfies. About an hour before kickoff, students start to make their way to the entrance of the student section, the ZonaZoo.

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Football Guide • Fall 2017

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FLANNIGAN-FOWLES FROM PAGE 2

the NCAA. As a sophomore, Flannigan-Fowles had his breakout season, as he was one of Arizona’s best defensive players finishing with 78 tackles, with a team best of 59 solos and tied the team-high with two interceptions.

Now entering his junior year, the 6-foot-2, 210-pound safety is looking to take on a leadership role.

“I feel like I can take more of a leadership role for the young guys and be an example more vocally,” FlanniganFowles said.

Taking that leadership role into the 2017 season, Flannigan-Fowles is very optimistic that the team will bounce back.

“Our chemistry has become a lot stronger through the summer,” Flannigan-Fowles said. “We did a lot of team activities, and now everyone knows everyone. Last year, was a huge wakeup call and we just had to make sure we worked hard in the summer and I feel like we did that.”

Hoping to have a turnaround season with no injuries and everyone playing, Flannigan-Fowles has high expectations: “I feel like if we stay healthy and continue to do our job, you never know what could happen this season.”

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B6 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2017

Dawkins looks to take command of Arizona’s offense

BY ALEC WHITE @AlecWhite_UA

Brandon Dawkins said he has been itching to get back onto the gridiron ever since the 2016 Territorial Cup Game — a game where he accounted for 260 total yards of offense and three touchdowns.

“I’m always competing. I’m always trying to win the job, even if I have the job. If the job is mine, then their job is to find someone to replace me. So I’ve got to always make sure I’m on point with everything that I do.”

— Brandon Dawkins Arizona football Quarterback

The redshirt junior will enter the upcoming football season with a surrounding expectation that he will be named Arizona’s starting quarterback when the team kicks off its season opener Sept. 2 against NAU, but Dawkins knows that if he is given the starting job, he must earn it the whole season.

“I’m always competing. I’m always trying to win the job, even if I have the job,” Dawkins said during Arizona’s media day Aug. 19. “If the job is mine, then their job is to find someone to replace me. So I’ve got to always make sure I’m on point with everything that I do”.

Throughout the offseason, Arizona has had an ongoing quarterback battle between Dawkins, sophomore Khalil Tate and 26-year-old freshman Donavan Tate. And in typical head coach Rich Rodriguez fashion, the team’s starting quarterback has yet to be officially announced.

Dawkins was in a somewhat similar competition a year ago, one in which the incumbent QB Anu Solomon beat out the challenging Dawkins. But a knee injury to Solomon in the season opener paved the way for Dawkins to take command of the position.

The 2016 campaign saw flashes of brilliance from the dual-threat quarterback, but they were marred by injuries and his inability to accurately throw down-field consistently. For reference, Dawkins finished the season ranking No. 5 among all Football Bowl Subdivision quarterbacks with 94.4 rushing yards per game. However, his completion percentage ranked last among qualified Pac-12 quarterbacks and he battled a rib injury for multiple games that even forced him to sit out against USC. This offseason though, Dawkins spent time trying to course correct in order to make sure those issues don’t plague Arizona again this year. One of the training exercises Dawkins did during the summer was bulk up physically to withstand the amount of hits he takes as a mobile quarterback.

“Last season, I was playing at around 205 [pounds], and now I’m up to around 215,” Dawkins said. “This is definitely where I want to try to maintain … I feel very comfortable at 215.”

The Oxnard, California native also spent more time in the classroom — the football classroom that is — learning the playbook and working to create chemistry with the offense. Dawkins said he is trying to be “more comfortable in this offense … and understand where everyone is going to be at so [he] can anticipate.”

“Anticipation” is a word Dawkins has repeated quite a bit during fall camp. He said that it’s one of the toughest parts of the game to master as quarterbacks progress from high school and is something he has focused on specifically in training camp with the offense.

“We’ve just worked on a lot of trust things with the O-line and with the receivers,” Dawkins said. “Anticipation has been a huge thing for me. To be able to put the ball where it needs to be before it’s there instead of waiting for it to happen,” he reiterated.

But perhaps the area where Dawkins has shown the most growth is with his leadership skills.

“Finally having some clout behind my name with having a few starts under my belt, the guys have really taken the stuff I say a lot more serious,” said Dawkins.

“They take that with a little more presence behind it.”

Teammates were also quick to point out his positive influences on the team.

“He’s gotten better as a leader throughout the years, and he’s been more of a team-guy every year,” offensive lineman Layth Friekh said. Wide receiver Shun Brown also referred to Dawkins as a leader and someone that the team follows.

If Arizona hopes to contend in the Pac-12 South this year, Dawkins will have to put all of the pieces he talked about together and display them for a full season.

His right arm could be the differencemaker for Arizona this season. His dynamic running will almost certainly be a part of the Wildcats’ offense this year, and if Dawkins can become a true dualthreat quarterback while staying healthy, Arizona should end the season with a better record than a year ago.

But if he is unable to make the leap that the coaching staff is expecting, Khalil or Donavan Tate may just be under center by the end of the season.

“No matter what happens, I’m always going to be competing,” Dawkins said.

Football Guide • Fall 2017

The Daily Wildcat • B7

Stand and Deliver Rich Rodriguez has been down this road before, but can he weather the storm this time around and make the Wildcats competitive again?

OPINION

BY SAUL BOOKMAN @Saul_Bookman

Arizona head coach, Richard Alan “Rich” Rodriguez, is no stranger to scrutiny, so coming into the 2017 season with the constant chatter of whether he can save his job is no new obstacle. Ever since his days at West Virginia and the drama associated with his jump to Michigan, Rodriguez has had to deal with people questioning his every move.

This season will be nothing new for Rodriguez, who by all accounts is on the perverbial hot seat. In fact, USA Today has Rodriguez tied for the second highest odds at losing his job alongside ASU head coach Todd Graham at 15/1, just behind UCLA’s Jim Mora who is the favorite at 9/1 odds. The Pac-12 should be very interesting this year.

Rodriguez helped Arizona get back on track after previous coach Mike Stoops was fired in 2011. In his first four seasons he led Arizona to four straight bowl games, a program first. He also took the Wildcats to the Pac-12 Championship game as the South Division Champions in 2014. Rodriguez was trending up and widely considered to have Arizona on the brink of national relevance.

Then 2015 happened.

After starting 3-0, the wheels came off in horrific fashion during a nationally televised game against UCLA. The No. 9 Bruins crushed the No. 16 Wildcats 56-30 and from there Arizona limped to a 6-6 finish. The program hasn’t recovered since and neither has Rodriguez.

Rodriguez, who is considered the innovator of the read-option attack, hasn’t been able to replicate the firepower he once had at West Virginia. Couple that with recruiting misses, a lack of development and a recent recruiting class that started in the top ten and fell to No. 45 by signing day due to the departure of a few key coaches and you can see why Rodriguez may be in jeopardy.

So what would keep Rodriguez on the sidelines past 2017? For one, being able to show that 2016 was a fluke would help. Reestablishing a dominant offense through the air as well as on the ground could also buy time as long as the defense doesn’t dwell near the bottom of the conference once again.

People can speculate about Rodriguez all they want, but what may ultimately keep him around is whether he can energize the fan base enough to actually attend games this season. Despite the announced attendance figures from Arizona athletics, the stadium was half empty a majority of the season. The ZonaZoo was a ghost town, understandably so, I mean, who wants to sit in 100 degree temperatures baking on aluminum seating during a 30-point blowout.

So the bottom line for Rodriguez is not necessarily winning but more remaining competitive for most games. Good games equal higher revenue and even in a three or four win season, the revenue alone may be enough to save RichRod in Athletic Director Dave Heeke’s eyes.

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B8 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2017

Wildcats road filled with many obstacles Facing two Heisman candidates, back-to-back Friday night games and the traditional nuance of Pac-12 scheduling, Arizona will have its' hands full in 2017

BY SAUL BOOKMAN @Saul_Bookman

SEPT. 2 VS. NAU

The Wildcats open with its in-state foe from Flagstaff in what can be considered a tune-up game. Every game for the Wildcats is a must win and they should have very little trouble with the Lumberjacks in the season opener.

SEPT. 9 VS. HOUSTON

The Cougars come into Tucson on the heels of a disaster in their hometown. Hurricane Harvey wreaked havoc not only on the city of Houston but also the University as the Cougars had to relocate to Austin, Texas to continue to practice.

Houston is no slouch of a team and has tremendous size and speed despite losing a ton of talent a year ago. This is considered the biggest test for Arizona in the non-conference, a win could provide a huge boost to the team.

SEPT. 15 AT UTEP

The Wildcats head to El Paso for a Friday night showdown with the Miners. It is an odd game at an odd time and Arizona will have to be ready because UTEP doesn’t get many power five conference opponents to their hometown. The crowd should be energetic and the 'Cats better be, this one has all the feelings of a game that could be closer than most think.

REBECCA NOBLE/THE DAILY WILDCAT

UCLA QUARTERBACK JOSH ROSEN (3) sends out a pass during Arizona's 45-24 loss to UCLA at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, Calif., on Oct. 1, 2016. Rosen makes his return to Arizona Stadium after having a career day against the Wildcats in 2015.

SEPT. 22 VS. UTAH

The Wildcats begin the Pac-12 slate at home against the Utes.

Arizona has had the Utes number more times than not and will hope to continue that trend on another Friday night game.

Defense and special teams is what keeps Utah in most games, not exactly a strong suit for Arizona of late. It is as winnable a game as there is on the home slate.

OCT. 7 AT COLORADO

The Buffaloes seemingly always play the Wildcats tough in Boulder. The weather could be as unpredictable as the game and the Wildcats will need every bit of their running game to show up in the rocky mountains. Colorado has done a nice job of development over the past seasons, including last years surprise run to the Pac-12 Championship by way of the South Division title.

OCT. 14 VS. UCLA

Last time Josh Rosen came into Arizona Stadium he lit up Arizona en route to a 56-30 win for the Bruins. Both coaches will come into the game either on their way to salvaging their tenure or halfway out the door.

OCT. 21 AT CAL

A game that could end up being a battle of two teams with their last hopes of getting a win is expected to happen. If Arizona starts the season with any semblance of hope to reach a bowl game, this game would end up as a must-win.

OCT. 28 VS. WASHINGTON STATE

Luke Falk owns the Wildcats. However, the UA defensive secondary is the strength of the unit and they will have to be amazing to slow down the vaunted Cougar passing attack.

Mike Leach isn't afraid of Rich Rodriguez and he attacks like it.

NOV. 4 AT USC

Arizona will head to L.A. with hopes of upsetting the Trojans.

Sam Darnold and company will look to prevent that from happening. The Trojans also have the Pac-12’s most talented defense on paper. Rich Rodriguez has not beaten the L.A. schools yet in his tenure with the Wildcats. It's been a while since anyone from Arizona has.

NOV. 11 VS. OREGON STATE

It is senior day at Arizona Stadium and the last home game of the season. If there is any game worth coming to it would be this one and I’d expect a good UA performance with several seniors going out one last time. It is game one of two against the Oregon schools. The year prior Arizona was the favorite and got demolished by the Beavers in Corvallis.

SYDNEY RICHARDSON/THE DAILY WILDCAT

USC QUARTERBACK SAM DARNOLD (14) evades an Arizona tackler on Oct. 15, 2016 at Arizona Stadium. Darnold is considered the front-runner for the Heisman this year.

NOV. 18 AT OREGON

The Ducks are a thorn in the side of Arizona, both on the field and in recruiting. New head coach Willie Taggart will look to solidify his programs turnaround while Arizona could be in a number of different places at this point of the season.

NOV. 25 AT ASU

This rivalry game just like many others may have huge significance. Both head coaches could be fighting for their jobs and this could end up being one of the nastiest games of the season, especially on the heals of the Sun Devils dismal performance last season. For those wondering, that is when Arizona put up 511 yards rushing without throwing a single pass in the second half.

Football Guide • Fall 2017

The Daily Wildcat • B9

Jacob Alsadek keeps line steady The fifth year senior from California has a calming effect on teammates despite dealing with the tragedy and misfortune of 2016 consistent as they come for an offensive unit that will be relied

BY SAUL BOOKMAN on heavily to make up for a 3-9 @Saul_Bookman season in 2016.

Every major publication If you didn’t know Jacob has the Arizona Wildcats as a Alsadek, you’d quite possibly cellar dwellers, and perhaps be intimidated. A 6-foot-7 that is a good thing. Following mountain of a man who has the the teams success in 2014 and appearance of someone who making a trip to the Fiesta Bowl would cut down the trees in a along with a South Division Bob Ross painting. title, expectations were that However, Alsadek is as the program was trending up. humble and fun-loving as It hasn’t worked out like that they come. for the Wildcats, but Alsadek The product of San Diego, believes the low expectations California has been through a lot may be a good thing. in his five years on campus, but “I think we through it all he has really embrace come out as one that underdog of the key leaders I enjoy being mentality; on a Wildcat out there with everybody football team in my teammates. puts us last on search of one.

Last year, after I think we’re every single ” Alsadek the death of going to bounce thing, said. “There teammate and back this season, is always fellow offensive and am looking pressure, lineman Zach forward to getting maybe this Hemmila, Alsadek started." year a little bit more because was shaken, of last year.” understandably —Jacob Alsadek, As a senior so. But if Offensive Lineman leader, character is Alsadek and measured in the rest of his how a person offensive line responds in the face of adversity, Alsadeks would counterparts will be relied on heavily to keep last year’s topbe held in high regard. His ranked rushing attack in the smile through a beard, befitting spotlight.The running game a lumberjack, shines across is the team’s biggest strength the room, partly because of his coming from last season, where physical stature and because you don’t expect the gentle giant they were at the top of the conference in rushing yards per side of him to be on display. He game. has taken everything in stride Alsadek’s easy-going San and doesn’t sweat the small Diego background will be key stuff. However, don’t let that fool in weathering whatever storm you. When Alsadek is ready, he should come Arizona’s way this is one of the fiercest competitors season. Whether it be in the on the field. face of adversity or prosperity, “I think that a lot of guys take Alsadek has handled his losing very hard,” Alsadek said. situations the same: laid back.

“I am one of those guys that take “You can’t stress yourself out losing very hard. We pretty much so much that you don’t enjoy couldn’t catch a break, couldn’t life,” Alsadek said. “I enjoy being get a win. It was hard.” out there with my teammates.

Alsadek started 35 games I think we’re going to bounce in his three previous seasons back this season, and am looking for Arizona after redshirting forward to getting started.” his freshman year. He is as

“

REBECCA NOBLE/THE DAILY WILDCAT

ARIZONA OFFENSIVE LINEMAN JACOB Alsadek (78) celebrates with the territorial cup in hand after Arizona’s 56-35 win against ASU in Arizona Stadium on Nov. 25, 2016.

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B10 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2017

Football Guide • Fall 2017

The Daily Wildcat • B11

2017 ARIZONA WILDCATS PROJECTED LINEUP Shun Brown #6 - WR

Dane Cruikshank #9 - CB Trevor Wood #8 - TE

Gerhard De Beer #67 - RT Jose ramirez #20 - LB

Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles #6 - SS

Nick Wilson #28 - RB

Parker Zellers #93 - DL

Jacob Alsadek #78 - RG

Deandre’ Miller #32 - STUD LB

Gavin Robertson Jr.

#5 - LB

Nathan Eldridge #64 - Center

Luca Bruno #60 - DL

Brandon Dawkins #13 - QB

Michael Eletise #75 - LG Isaiah Hayes #21 - FS

Jalen Harris #52 - LB

Justin Belknap #86 - DL

Layth Friekh #58 - LT

Shawn Poindexter #19 - WR

Jace Whittaker #17 - CB

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B12 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2017

Rushing attack runs the show The Arizona Wildcats enter the 2017 season with more questions than answers. A disappointing close to the 2017 recruiting cycle and a disastrous 3-9 campaign last year have some people doubting the direction of the program. While expectations are at their lowest in years, hope remains that the ‘Cats can surprise the pundits. Offensively, Arizona has the potential to be explosive on the ground, with multiple returning tailbacks and the best running quarterback in the Pac-12. A lack of depth on the offensive line and wide receiver will limit what the Wildcats can be through the air.

BY NATHAN SKINNER @CaneDude

QUARTERBACKS

On paper, Brandon Dawkins is the prototypical Rich Rodriguez quarterback. Dawkins can run, as evidenced by his performance against the hated Sun Devils last season.

Unfortunately, his limited passing ability made him a onedimensional player. He will have to improve on his pedestrian 53.8 completion percentage if he is to be more than an impressive athlete playing the position.

Sophomore Khalil Tate was a highly touted recruit and had a baptism by fire last year, earning his first career start against USC. That start didn’t end well, with the Trojans manhandling the young signal-caller. Donavan Tate, like Dawkins, is an athletic marvel but a raw passer. He will be the first man off the bench if Dawkins falters or is injured. Tate is the kind of athlete coaches salivate over; he is the complete package. He has the size, the strength and the athleticism needed to succeed at the collegiate level. The former baseball player arrived in Tucson with little hype but has stood out in fall camp. He hasn’t been able to overtake Dawkins, but don’t be shocked if the “Old Man” is utilized in a cameo role.

Freshman Rhett Rodriguez has the name, but he doesn’t have the strength or ability at this point. Rodriguez is in desperate need of a redshirt; he lacks the heft needed to survive in the rugged Pac-12.

TAILBACKS

The ZonaZoo should print “Pound The Rock” t-shirts, because the ‘Cats tailbacks will see a lot of action in 2017. Nick Wilson, J.J. Taylor and Nathan Tilford form the best triumvirate of backs in the conference.

Wilson and Taylor are finally healthy after suffering injuries last season, and Tilford was the highest-rated recruit in this year’s recruiting class. A surprisingly physical runner, Wilson rushed for 1,375 yards as a true freshman in 2014. He will split carries with Taylor, whose ability to make defenders miss makes him extremely dangerous in a tempo-based attack.

Look for Taylor to be a weapon in the pass game as well; he is a handful for any linebacker. Tilford appeared to be a complete back in high school; the only limiting factor for him is pass protection. If the young runner can grasp the intricacies of pass pro, he will get carries.

WIDE RECEIVERS & TIGHT ENDS Who will be the man on third down? That is the question everyone is asking, for the ‘Cats don’t have a true go-to receiver on the roster. Shun Brown led the team in receiving yards and touchdowns last season, but only caught 29 passes during the campaign. He will be joined by Shawn Poindexter, a player that has blossomed over the off-season. Poindexter, who is the tallest receiver on the roster at 6-foot-5, will be the red zone threat the ‘Cats desperately need. Cam Denson was a big play threat last season, averaging 16.1 yards per catch; he will get more targets with Trey Griffey, Nate Phillips and Samaje Grant gone.

Devaughn Cooper is back with the team, and will have to fight his way back up the depth chart, according to coaches. Cooper is an explosive athlete, so if he can get back into the groove, there will be a role for him.

Former cornerback Cam Denson has been a bit of a disappointment during his career, but has one more chance to turn it around. Talent isn’t the issue for Denson; it’s staying on the field and being a consistent contributor that the senior struggles with. Tight end Trevor Wood may not be the second coming of Rob Gronkowski, but he is a player coaches are high on. Wood wasn’t utilized often last year, but he will see additional targets this year.

This isn’t a group to write home about, but they should improve as the season goes on.

If Brown or Poindexter become a dependable threat, the offense will benefit immensely.

OFFENSIVE LINE

Jacob Alsadek is your typical roadgrader. He leads what is a physical Wildcat front.

Alsadek started 10 games last season and was graded highly almost every week. Three starters from last year join Alsadek, including tackles Gerhard de Beer and Layth Friekh.

Both DeBeer and Friekh are experienced upperclassmen that are at their best when leading the way for Wildcat tailbacks.

This offensive line thrives in the run game, as evidenced by Arizona’s sterling statistics in that area. Unfortunately, protecting the passer isn’t this group’s strong suit, and it is extremely evident on film. Arizona’s front struggled with aggressive, physical defensive linemen last year and, outside of Alsadek, was unable to consistently keep on coming rushers at bay.

Arizona has a line that can pave the way for runners, but for the ‘Cats to be a complete offense, this group has to provide the quarterback with an uncluttered pocket.

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Football Guide • Fall 2017

The Daily Wildcat • B13

Undersized defense will look to be creative with attack

Year one of the Marcel Yates era wasn’t a rousing success.

The first-year defensive coordinator struggled to field a defense worthy of a Power Five conference school. A lack of depth at every position led to the Arizona Wildcats’ defense being one of the worst outfits in the country. Arizona finished near the bottom in almost every statistical ranking, including points allowed.

2017 may be more of the same, as the ‘Cats are once again lacking in the trenches and at linebacker.

However, there is hope, as the secondary appears to be one of the better groups in the conference.

BY NATHAN SKINNER @CaneDude

DEFENSIVE LINE

Luca Bruno leads a unit sorely lacking in heft and depth. Bruno, a senior defensive tackle, will be the most experienced player on the Wildcat front. He will be joined by sophomore Justin Belknap, a young player that was forced into action as a true freshman last season. He struggled toward the end of the season but should be better prepared with a summer of growth under his belt.

Tackle Sione Taufahema was expected to be an immediate contributor after arriving in Tucson from the JUCO ranks but was lost for the season after suffering a knee injury during fall camp. That injury means that Parker Zellers will have to shoulder more of the load inside. Zellers doesn’t possess prototypical size, and that weakness was exploited extensively last year.

This unit is one of the smallest in the country, and with few productive bodies available, the front may once again struggle to hold their own against physical offenses. Larry Tharpe, Jr. may be a surprise contributor off the edge for the Wildcats in 2017.

LINEBACKER

Paul Magloire exhausted his eligibility in 2016, leaving the second level of the ‘Cats defense in chaos. DeAndre’ Miller is the only returning linebacker with any significant experience, and he was a nonfactor last season. Miller started eight games and recorded a paltry 18 tackles in what was a disappointing junior year. He will have to be a factor this year, as the young ‘Cats find their way.

Gavin Robertson, Brandon Rutt and Kahi Neves will all see their roles enlarged. Incoming freshmen Joshua Brown and Jose Ramirez will also find their way onto the field. Ramirez, an early enrollee, was impressive during the spring; he is an athletic thumper.

With the lack of talent on the defensive line, it will be imperative that the linebacker corps holds their own. There are some talented young players, but the offensive circus known as the Pac-12 is hardly the place for on-the-job training. Freshman Tony Fields is a freshman to watch after gaining weight to match up to the size of the Pac-12.

SECONDARY

Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles has come a long way from being a lightly recruited afterthought. Flannigan-Fowles, through determination and attention to detail, has transformed himself into one of the best safeties on the West Coast. His ability in pass coverage has earned him some preseason accolades. He will be the focal point of what is an extremely underrated secondary.

While Flannigan-Fowles receives all the press, Isaiah Hayes toils in obscurity. Despite being known as the other safety, Hayes appears ready for a breakout season. His first year in Tucson was uneven, but he did manage to start in seven contests and record 38 tackles.

Senior cornerback Dane Cruikshank started every game last season; he made some impressive plays when placed on an island. The former junior college player is a physical presence, and he isn’t afraid to throw his significant size around. Jace Whittaker had 12 pass breakups in 2016; he is a perfect complement to Cruikshank at corner. Nickel back Tristan Cooper is a long, lanky, versatile athlete that can not only cover the slot but can move outside as well.

This group is a perfect mix of experience and youth and will be one of the better groups in the Pac-12. Unfortunately, a lack of pass rush from the defensive front may limit their effectiveness.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Steve McLaughlin isn’t walking through the door at the Lowell-Stevens Football Facility, and the ‘Cats desperately need a dependable kicking specialist. Junior Josh Pollack struggled from distance last season, connecting on only 1-in-6 kicks from beyond 40 yards. He has been pushed in camp by freshman Lucas Havrisik, but it appears that Pollack will survive the challenge. Pollack will do double duty, as he is the lone punter on the roster with significant experience.

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B14 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2017

LEADERS OF THE NEW SCHOOL

BY MAX COHEN @maxcohen_dw

With the dawn of a new season comes an infusion of new players fresh from the high school ranks eager to make a difference. This year is no different as we highlight four freshmen that could make a significant impact for Arizona football this season.

TONY FIELDS JR. LINEBACKER

Fields Jr. is a hard-hitting linebacker who is elusive coming off the edge and efficient when dropping into zone coverage.

In addition to pass defense, Fields Jr. can plug holes in the defensive line to stop the run.

There were doubts coming into the season about his size, but he put on weight to come up to 225 lbs. He is still on the small side for a linebacker, but he makes up for his size by playing smart, heady football. For a size comparison, former Arizona All-American, Scooby Wright, was listed in his draft profile as 6-foot, 240 lbs.

LUCAS HAVRISIK KICKER Arizona finally has a kicker to be excited about.

Havrisik was the kicker and punter for his high school team and was voted the most valuable player.

As a kicker, Havrisik was a five-star recruit, per Chris Sailer Kicking. As a punter, he landed 10 of his 40 punts within the 20 yard line, the baseline of a good punt.

He has all but secured the job as the man on kickoffs and is giving incumbent Josh Pollack a run for his money for the top of the field goal unit depth chart.

Is Havrisik the kicker to finally rid Arizona Stadium of the ghost of Alex Zendejas?

NATHAN TILDFORD RUNNING BACK If you watched his high school footage from 2015, you’d see that Tilford shows an ability to gain yards after contact. He has patience and break-away speed to go with his ideal size for a running back.

Once wrapped up, Tilford likes to turn his back and keep swimming with his legs. Tilford is more comparable to an Ezekiel Elliot, than a David Johnson or a Le’Veon Bell, so it will be interesting to see if he can complement Brandon Dawkins.

BRIAN CASTEEL WIDE RECEIVER Casteel is going to make an impact for the Wildcats.

Casteel played on both sides of the ball for Charter Oak High School, lining up as both a receiver and a corner. He also played running back and could line up both behind an under center quarterback and next to a quarterback in the shotgun.

His ability to line up in the “I” formation shows his ability to smash the ball between the teeth, so to speak, and carry the ball up the middle and run over defenders. He shows quick bursts of speed to separate himself while running routes. Casteel has great hands and a seemingly high football I.Q. He also has a highlight film of circus catches and of running over helpless defensive backs.

Football Guide • Fall 2017

The Daily Wildcat • B15

Wildcats hope to avoid injury plague in 2017 Arizona football has been decimated by injuries in the past two seasons and it has affected its play, but how can the Wildcats overcome the problem?

BY ALEC WHITE @AlecWhite_UA

The “injury bug” has made a habit of residing in Tucson during football season these past two years, feasting on the football program.

There were points during the 2016 season where injuries snowballed to the point that Arizona was forced to play athletes out of their normal positions because the team’s reserves became so depleted.

For example, during the third quarter of last year’s game at home against USC on Oct. 15, third-string tight end Matt Morin was brought in to play quarterback for the Wildcats.

Then-true freshman Khalil Tate started the game, but with the score out of hand in the second half, head coach Rich Rodriguez turned to Morin.

Anu Solomon and Brandon Dawkins were already inactive due to their own injuries, and Rodriguez likely didn’t want to risk the young Tate’s health in a meaningless part of the game.

Later in the season, Rodriguez inserted senior wide receiver Samajie Grant into the starting running back position for Arizona’s game against Stanford on Oct. 29, because the team’s top two running backs, Nick Wilson and J.J Taylor, were injured.

Grant remained as the team’s top tailback the rest of the year as Wilson and Taylor never got back to full strength.

Whether it came from simple bad luck or from inadequate conditioning, the injuries Arizona suffered in 2016 took a toll throughout the season and were one of the many factors that led to the team’s disappointing 3-9 record.

This time around, team members are trying to apply their own version of injury bug repellent.

“I’m focusing a lot more on my diet,” senior running back Nick Wilson said at the team’s media day on Aug. 19.

REBECCA NOBLE/THE DAILY WILDCAT

ARIZONA RUNNING BACK J.J. Taylor, center, sits on the sidelines after breaking his ankle during Arizona’s overtime 35-28 loss to Washington in Arizona Stadium on Sept. 24, 2016. Arizona hopes to avoid injuries to remain competitive in the Pac-12.

Wilson, who has only played 14 games over the last two seasons, is expected to be Arizona’s starting running back this season with a relatively inexperienced group behind him. The 208-pound tailback was kept out of seven games last fall due to a knee ailment but noted that he has been doing exercises that should prevent injuries, such as yoga and stretches.

“It’s been unfortunate because I get really fast starts and then some injuries have taken over,” Wilson said.

Wilson’s first year in 2014 still stands as his most productive where he rushed for 1,375 yard with 16 touchdowns.

The man who will likely be responsible for handing the ball off to Wilson, quarterback Brandon Dawkins, has also had his own encounters with injuries.

Dawkins suffered a rib injury early in the 2016 season against UCLA on Oct. 1 that nagged him for the majority of the season and even forced him to miss the contest against USC a few weeks later. Due to the number of hits Dawkins absorbs from being a mobile passer, the quarterback decided to bolster his frame over summer. Dawkins said he started the offseason at around 205 pounds and worked his way up to 215.

“I feel a little bit more solid. … I put on a little more mass to keep more safe,” the redshirt junior explained.

Even though he stayed healthy for all 12 games a season ago, junior wide receiver Shun Brown took note of all the injuries happening around him and prepared his body all summer.

“I’ve been treating my body right, doing a little extra stretching, yoga, anything to have my body fresh for the season,” Brown said. Brown developed into Arizona’s top pass-catching weapon last year, leading the team with 529 receiving yards and will start the 2017 campaign as the go-to

option in the aerial attack.

The good news for Arizona in 2017 is that all starters — except linebacker DeAndre’ Miller who is still healing from a foot injury suffered in July — are entering the new year with a fresh start and a fresh body. The bad news is that, for the last two seasons, the Wildcats have been unable to keep their most productive players on the field once the games begin. It’s been a large reason why the program has struggled to remain relevant since the 2014 Fiesta Bowl.

It remains to be seen if the new injury repellent techniques will work for the ‘Cats, but if they do, you can bet that they will be applied yearly.

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B16 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2017

Pac-12 teams at a glance

ANALYSIS

BY SAUL BOOKMAN @Saul_Bookman

NORTH STANFORD

David Shaw and company started off the season down under as they routed Rice 62-7. It was the same recipe as always, an efficient use of the pass and running games.

OREGON

New coach Willie Taggart did his best job to at least take away talent from Arizona by snatching up Braxton Burmeister just before signing day. His off season program was intended to toughen up a Ducks team that had its worst season since 1991. Having Royce Freeman back should help.

WASHINGTON

The Huskies faced Alabama in the college football playoff. Though they didn’t win, they did perform amicably and are poised for another good season behind quarterback Jake Browning.

CALIFORNIA California is in rebuild mode. New coach justin Wilcox brings a defensive minded approach to a Golden Bears team expected to compete with Arizona at the bottom of the Pac-12.

WASHINGTON STATE The sleeper in the Pac-12 should be in the race for the North Division thanks to one of the most prolific passing attacks in the nation. Luke Falk should set plenty of records this season.

OREGON STATE

A season opening loss at Colorado State was not an ideal start to the season. Getting blown out 58-27 was even worse as the Beavers scramble to find their identity.

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SOUTH USC

Sam Darnold is a Heisman candidate. His performance in the Rose Bowl last season woke up a lot of fans that had dismissed the Trojans as underachievers. Now USC begins the season in the top five and in search of a playoff birth.

UCLA

Josh Rosen is no longer the big quarterback in L.A., that belongs to their rival. His bounce back from a dismal 2016 year could save head coach Jim Mora his job, if not, the rumor mill is already circulating with Chip Kelly being name dropped.

UTAH

Utah always seems to do the same thing every year.

They will be competitive and consistent but I wouldn’t look for too much from the Utes in 2017.

ARIZONA STATE Todd Graham is on one of the hottest seats in the country. Recruiting hasn’t necessarily been an issue but suspect play calling and lackluster efforts may cost the head coach his job.

COLORADO Colorado shocked everyone in the Pac-12 by having one of its best seasons since the Bill McCartney days.

Development was key and will be moving forward as the Buffs suddenly look like they are built for the long haul.

ARIZONA The Wildcats have more questions than answers and will seek redemption for a down 2016 season.

Figuring out who is the starting quarterback is the least of their problems as Arizona had one of the worst defenses in the country a year ago.

Football Guide • Fall 2017

The Daily Wildcat • B17

National college football preview Another year, another Alabama team ranked No. 1 to start the season. This season should be entertaining because even though the Crimson Tide will start at the top, the SEC is not far and away the best conference anymore, being challenged by the ACC and Big Ten who have a combined five teams in the initial AP poll. Every week is important, so buckle up for a great 2017 college football season.

ANALYSIS

BY SAUL BOOKMAN @Saul_Bookman

ALABAMA

PENN STATE

Head coach Nick Saban and company come back looking for a return to the national title game after losing to Clemson last season. The results may rest in the duo of quarterback Jaylen Hurts and running back Bo Scarbrough, arguably the best qb/rb combo in the nation. A week one battle with Florida State will set the national picture in a hurry.

For the Nittany Lions the solution is simple, repeat 2016. Easier said than done, the Lions won’t fly under the radar this time around so head coach James franklin better get his troops in order.

OKLAHOMA

OHIO STATE

You never know what to expect from the Sooners.

One year they start out losing to Houston in the season opener, the next they lose their head coach Bob Stoops.

What is next? Well an infusion of youth apparently and not in the team. Head coach Lincoln Riley at 33-yearsold is the youngest coach in college football. Carrying the pressures that Oklahoma fans put on a program better be common place for the young man.

The Buckeyes return JT Barrett and will challenge for the Big Ten title again. If they can get out of their own way and keep Penn State at bay, they should find themselves in contention for a spot in the college football playoff.

FLORIDA STATE

WASHINGTON

The Seminoles are looking for a return to prominence. The fastest way to get there would be to take down Alabama in week one. No pressure.

The Huskies return Jake Browning, but can they maintain the level of play from last season. The Huskies may be the biggest wild card on the national scene.

WISCONSIN

USC

The Badgers always seem to do enough to stay relevant without doing anything of relevance. They make a big bowl game here or there but never make noise when it comes to the national title, why? See Ohio State.

The Trojans come off of a thrilling comeback victory against Penn State in the Rose Bowl with Heisman hopeful Sam Darnold in tow. Darnold has the poise and ability to lead the Trojans to a Pac-12 Championship.

CLEMSON

OKLAHOMA STATE

The defending National Champions start off at No. 5 due to the loss of quarterback Deshaun Watson and wide receiver Mike Williams. However, the Tigers are expected to rebound nicely with new quarterback Kelly Bryant in tow. Key games at Louisville and against Florida State at home will determine their postseason fate.

The mullet aka head coach Mike Gundy has the same problem as Wisconsin. The Cowboys have a ton of talent but never seem to put it all together to be taken top three serious.

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B18 • The Daily Wildcat

Football Guide • Fall 2017

Wildcat Sports staff season predictions 3-9

BY SAUL BOOKMAN @Saul_Bookman

J.J. Taylor, Nick Wilson and Nathan Tilford will do their best to keep Arizona in games behind an experienced offensive line, however, the passing game outside of the productivity of Shun Brown will leave much to be desired.

Combine that with an undersized, undertalented defense and it could be the makings for another long season, and possibly the final one for Rich Rodriguez.

3-9

BY NATHAN SKINNER @CaneDude

It will be a long fall in Tucson, for the ‘Cats are the least talented team in the Pac-12. The ‘Cats will be decided underdogs in at least nine games, and it is tough to find four games in which the Wildcats will be competitive.

While one can hope for a miracle, there just isn’t enough talent on the roster.

4-8

BY CAMILA WESBROOKS @CamilaWesbrooks

My predictions on the 2017 football season is that they will do better this year because they have better recruits coming in than they did last year. It should be interesting to see who gets the starting quarterback position between Donavan Tate and Brandon Dawkins.

5-7

BY CORY KENNEDY @corykennedy_DW

After coming off a not-so-impressive season I see the Wildcats improving. Arizona should have little issues with their three non-conference games, but with the recent rise of Colorado, Washington State and USC in the Pac-12 the ‘Cats will still have a tough time. The experienced Brandon Dawkins at QB and running back Nick Wilson should provide stability and talent to the offense.

5-7

4-8

BY SYRENA TRACY @syrena_tracy

BY ALEC WHITE @AlecWhite_UA

Even if the team stays healthy, I don’t think they have enough talent to compete on both sides of the ball in the Pac-12. By the end of the season Shawn Poindexter will be the go-to guy in the offense and the running game should be one of the best in the Pac-12. However, the defense is the biggest concern and I don’t believe they will allow UA to be competitive in most games.

Arizona defense has been the worst it has been in years, but the players seem to be hopeful for a turnaround season.

Therefore, I predict the team will improve but not by much.

4-8

5-7

BY TEAGAN RASCHE @teaganrasche

BY RACHEL HUSTON @mirachelonice

I predict they will go 5-7 because their indecisiveness at quarterback will give them a boost in some games, but wind up coming back to bite them in others.

The team is still very young, but will have more fire this year after a disappointing 2016 season. Look for one or two upsets against more talented teams, but I believe they will fall short in other games.

6-6

4-8

BY ALEX MUNOZ @Alex_Munoz89

BY NOAH AUCLAIR @noahauclair

The Wildcats’ football woes continue. With a schedule chock-full of games against potential top 25 teams, the only bright spot of the season comes with another Territorial Cup win, this time in Tempe.

6-6

After a disappointing 2016, the Wildcats will be better but not much better.

6-6

BY MAX COHEN @maxcohen_dw

BY CHASTITY LASKEY @ChastityLaskey

Arizona will open strong against NAU, fall to Houston, but bounce back against UTEP. That game will be as important for team morale, coming off the Houston loss, as it will be for the overall record. In Pac-12 play, Arizona will surprise a lot of people and beat UCLA, heating up Jim Mora’s seat just a little more.

It hurt to watch Arizona football last year, so hopefully they improve. This is optimistic, but I’m very positive they’re at least going to beat NAU and ASU, plus everyone loves an underdog.

CATS