Hot Take: The Arizona Football will be improved, starting at D-Line

We’re under two weeks to go until the kick-off of the 2019 Arizona Football season, and as the Wildcats prepare, all eyes will be on the defense!

We’ve definitely been in a drought in Tucson, and I’m not talking about a lack of rain. No, I’m talking about the length of time it’s been since Arizona Football has had a formidable defense.

While a large majority of the teams’ success this season will be contingent on the overall health and play at quarterback, honestly I think more of Arizona’s success lies within the defense.

Arizona Wildcats

It’s been a looooong time since the Wildcats have put out a good, heck, even just a serviceable unit, yet here we are again hoping for big things.

There’s no doubt last year was fairly rough, despite the group seeing a little improvement. Need proof? Look no further than when Arizona finished with a defense that ranked 118th in 2017-18, to ranking 92nd this year!

The good news, is that the majority of last years’ defense returns, and it is now year four under defensive coordinator Marcel Yates. Moreover, Colin Schooler and Tony Fields II are juniors, and there are a number of play makers that should see increased roles in 2019 that are making us believers!

However, where Arizona’s success on defense really lies this season, is on the defensive line. Boiled down in a lot of Arizona’s defensive woes, has been lackluster play at ‘D-Line’, never really having a formidable pass rush the past few years.

Coming in 2019, we are believers that this will change! There’s no doubt losing PJ Johnson and Dereck Boles hurts, but returning are Jalen Harris (who came on late last season), Finton Connolly, JB Brown, Justin Belknap and Jalen Cochran.

More importantly, is that Arizona could see increased roles from; Nahe Sulunga, Issaiah Johnson and Mykee Irving (who moved back to defensive line).

That’s also not including junior college transfers Myles Tapusoa and Trevon Mason, who are drawing early praise from coach Kevin Sumlin!

So finally, Arizona may be in a position to have an improved group, and early indications from the media and the players have been that this group should be more competitive this season!

Just listen to Arizona safety, Tristan Cooper talk about the defense!

At Zona Zealots, we’re excited to see what the Wildcats have this season, and we’re hopeful Arizona can get it done defensively! As always, Bear Down, Arizona!