The 2018 Arizona Football season is nearly here! With a number of questions to be answered entering the year, we breakdown our most important position.
WE ARE OFFICIALLY UNDER 50 DAYS UNTIL KICK-OFF!!! The Sumlin Era is soon, set to begin, and while the Arizona Football team certainly has a few questions entering the season, we breakdown what we feel is our most important position.
So far, all the preseason hype has been on junior quarterback, Khalil Tate, and rightfully so. The do-it-all quarterback who took college football by storm last season, returns under a new coaching staff.
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However, as we and many others anticipate him to shine once again, he’s the not biggest question mark for the Wildcats. No! Instead it is the defensive line in my opinion.
It’s no secret the Wildcats struggled defensively last year, but a lot of that comes down to Arizona’s inconsistencies along the line, and the fact the Wildcats struggled to have a formidable pass rush.
As per the NCAA, Arizona ranked 85th overall in rushing defense, surrendering an average of 4.61 yards per carry, and 185.1 yards per game.
While the Wildcats ranked tied for 38th in the NCAA with 31 sacks overall, nearly half came from the linebacker position (seven-and-a-half coming from line backer/ defensive end combo, Kylan Wilborn).
Certainly not terrible production, however, there is no doubt it needs to get better. That’s where I feel the Wildcats have the most to prove.
To me their success of being a fringe bowl-team, versus being a legit Pac-12 contender hinges on the production and effectiveness of the defensive line.
Returning are;
- Justin Belknap – (23 tackles- 15 solo, three tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks)
- Finton Connolly – (20 tackles- 10 solo, 4.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks)
- Derrick Boles – (42 tackles- 30 solo, 1.5 tackles for loss and no sacks)
- Kylan Wilborn – (33 tackles- five solo, 9.5 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks)
Luckily, the Wildcats have more talent that will be joining. Incoming or eligible in 2018 are; PJ Johnson, Sione Taufahema, Jalen Harris and My-King Johnson.
It’s difficult to say what kind of impact they all will have, but the more talent and depth the better! PJ Johnson and Taufahema are probably the most game-ready based on size, physical maturity and strength.
Both junior college transfers, there is a good possibility they will see plenty of action, and could have a pretty big impact while doing it!
IF the Wildcats get sizable contributions on the defensive line, this is only going to help other areas of the defense, making it a more efficient group.
We don’t see Arizona struggling much to put points on the board, but if Arizona’s defense, and specifically the defensive line can be significantly improved, this will only help the Wildcats early on, especially as they break a few, new offensive linemen!
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At Zona Zealots, we are excited for the approach of the 2018 football season, and can’t wait to see how the Wildcats perform! Bear Down, Arizona!