The University of Arizona football (3-4, 1-3 in Big 12) will play West Virginia University (3-4, 2-2 in Big 12) on Saturday, Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. at Arizona Stadium. The Wildcats look to get back into the win column as they find themselves below .500 for the first time since 2022 and are at risk of losing their fourth-straight game.
West Virginia this year
As of this season, West Virginia has faced a challenging campaign in the Big 12 conference, with its current record hovering around .500. Inconsistency on the defensive side of the ball has plagued the squad as the Mountaineers have allowed over 30 points to be scored in their last several program losses. West Virginia’s quarterback, Garrett Greene, leads the team with 471 rushing yards and has thrown multiple interceptions in four games this season. Greene, who is listed as questionable for Saturday’s game, will have to find a better way to protect the football if West Virginia looks to turn around its season.
Arizona this year
After picking up a 23-10 win over the University of Utah, the Wildcats proceeded to lose the following three games and look for a redeeming victory against the Mountaineers. Three weeks ago, the Wildcats lost at home against Texas Tech University, 28-22. Following that game, Arizona was met with a blowout loss on the road against BYU, falling 41-19. In a desperation game against Colorado, Arizona was left disappointed, losing to the Buffs 34-7.
Arizona’s offense has not performed well as the Wildcats look to lack a balanced attack, relying heavily on quarterback Noah Fifita and receiver Tetairoa McMillan. Fifita, who is known for his accuracy, has made uncharacteristic mistakes so far in the season. Part of this can be due to his high volume and untimely decision making that led to costly mistakes. Fifita currently ranks No. 14 in the country in total pass attempts and leads the Big 12 in interceptions with 10.
Keys to success
Arizona’s offense will need to find a way to be forceful and efficient if the Wildcats look to revive their season. Arizona has played four games this year in which the Wildcats have scored 10 or less points. In those games, Arizona’s offense lacked explosiveness and consistency. Arizona will have to run the ball more often to try and string together first downs. In order to do this, the Wildcats need to prevent West Virginia from scoring early in hopes to gain control of the game. For the Mountaineers, running the ball effectively will be the key. West Virginia, a team that relies on its run game heavily, may have to run the ball even more with Greene battling injuries.
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