It’s week nine and there’s still quarterback controversy for Rich Rodriguez. The argument about who should start between Anu Solomon and Jerrard Randall is the hot topic this week after Arizona fell to Washington State 45-42 in what should’ve been an easy home win.

Solomon had his glory days as the starting quarterback, but hasn’t been conducting the offense the same way he did as a freshman. He completed 12 of 20 passes for 145 yards, and the Wildcats were desperate to get back into the game after Wazzu was preparing to run away with the win.

Rodriguez inserted the magician who is Randall and, even though Arizona lost, Randall still brought the Wildcats back into the game.

The argument that Randall can’t throw the ball is out the window. The gunslinger went 11 of 16 for 137 yards and threw two touchdowns against Washington State. The redshirt senior also added 108 yards on the ground with 10 attempts.

So if Randall is producing better numbers, plus nearly saving the day from the mess Solomon keeps making, why wouldn’t Rodriguez start Randall this week?

Rodriguez has to at least try it once without Solomon being hurt first. Who knows, maybe this is exactly what Solomon and the Wildcats need. Seeing the offense with a new quarterback is like seeing an ex-significant other with a new partner: It could possibly light a fire.

Arizona is sitting at 5-3 and needs one more win to become bowl-eligible, and if Randall is the answer, then expect No. 8 to be the first one to run out onto the field on Halloween night.

— Justin Spears

VS

Arizona is now faced with even more soul-searching after a heartbreaking loss to Washington State. The team has a tough road game this week against a Washington team that arguably boasts one of the best defenses in the conference right now.

With three losses already on the record and four tough upcoming games, the Wildcats have to make changes. However, one factor should remain the same.

Anu Solomon should continue to start at quarterback.

Solomon has yet to prove that he has lost the starting job; he has looked fine in each game that he has played so far this season. Jerrard Randall is undoubtedly exciting to watch; however, his skill set brings far fewer options to the table.

Solomon’s passing is his greatest attribute. The receiving corps the Wildcats have is too talented not to be used. Randall is a decent passer, but if anyone remembers the Stanford or UCLA games, he’s far more inconsistent than Solomon.

I’m not saying the Wildcats should keep Randall on the bench all season. He’s a unique talent whose big-play ability cannot be ignored.

However, Solomon is much better rounded and should continue to lead this offense with the aim to get this football season back on track.

— Kyle Hansen

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