The Arizona Football defense may be moving to a four-man front

The Arizona Football defense might be finally be trending in the right direction, if the latest rumors about the defensive line are true.

It’s been quite the drought in Tucson, and no I’m not talking about the lackluster Monsoon Season this year. No, instead I’m referring to more of the lackluster play from the Arizona Football defense for nearly the last decade.

I know this has already been said over and over again, and at this point we’re just beating a dead horse, but simply put, the Arizona Football defense has not been good.

Arizona Wildcats

But let’s look at some of the positives! We are now entering year four under defensive coordinator Marcel Yates, so Arizona may finally have the size and depth to compete, however, that’s not what’s getting fans optimistic.

If the latest rumors of Arizona moving to a four-man front are true, then that should be good news to fans who have been begging for a significant improvement from the defense.

So why should we be excited about the defensive scheme change? Well, amidst the myriad of defense struggles, to me, a lot can be pointed to the lack of a formidable pass rush. Blame it on the lack of size, a lack of Pac-12 worthy talent, or even just the scheme, but the Wildcats just haven’t been able to “get it done”.

If Arizona does indeed move to the four-man front, it’s going to essentially give them an extra pass rusher, and it’s going to help them scheme-wise to fill gaps, open up blitzes, etc.

As it stands, this is a group that should be incredibly versatile. First off, junior college transfers Trevon Mason and Myles Tapusoa should add increased size on the interior line, and both look ready to make an impact this season.

Now as for the returning talent, many are expecting big things from Jalen Harris, meanwhile JB Brown can move to the interior line if need be to give the Cats a bit more speed and versatility.

Additionally, we can’t forget about Finton Connolly, Justin Belknap and Jalen Cochran returning, meanwhile we may possibly see an increased role from Nahe Sulunga and Issaiah Johnson, as well as the debut of true freshman in Kyon Barrs.

Of course a lot of this is speculative, but the depth helps, and the size helps even more!

Listen to defensive line Coach Iona Uiagalelei as he talks about his group just ahead of the 2019 season!

At Zona Zealots, we’re excited for the potential changes for the defensive line and are hoping for big things out of this group this season. As always, Bear Down, Arizona!