OPINION: Defensive Recruiting still lacking for Arizona Football

Following a beat down at the hands of Cal, it is clear that Arizona Football is in desperate need of more defensive playmakers and depth. 

We are in year two of the Jedd Fisch era, and while things look a bit improved from the 1-11 finish in 2021, Arizona Football has quite a bit to improve upon after four games played through 2022.

So far this season, the Wildcats are averaging 29.2 points, a stark contrast from the 17.2 points per game that they averaged in 2021. And beyond that, Arizona is averaging roughly 425.3 yards per game as well.

On the flip side of that, unfortunately, with new defensive coordinator Johnny Nansen now in control of the defense, things have largely been the same for the Wildcats… abysmal.

In 2022, the Wildcats are surrendering 416.0 yards per game (228.3 yards rushing) and 34.0 points per game which ranks 103rd overall.

Blame coaching, scheme, preparation, etc. but what it largely boils down to is personnel or lack thereof.

For whatever reason, for about the past decade or so, Arizona has had several recruiting misses on defense. Now, you can call it a lack of luck, but overall, the Wildcats have not fared well when it comes to evaluating and developing defensive talent.

And if Arizona Football hopes to improve its product on the field, the Wildcats need an insurgence of talent and depth on defense.

Granted, we are just in year two of the Jedd Fisch rebuild which means better days are on the horizon for the Wildcats. But unfortunately, we as fans, have to continue to remain patient for now.

Luckily, the Wildcats have been aggressive on the recruiting trail, bringing in 19 commits for 2023 so far, which includes 15 defensive prospects (the majority being defensive linemen and defensive backs).

However, Arizona needs to continue to focus on building its defense. If we have learned anything this year, it is that the Wildcats have had several recruiting misses on defense the past couple of seasons, and Fisch and Co. have to course correct ASAP!

Lucky for us, we still have several months to go until National Signing Day, but hopefully, the Cats can remain aggressive on the recruiting trail and bring in a few more immediate playmakers on defense. Otherwise, this rebuild could take a while.

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