The Arizona Wildcats football team is a force to be reckoned with in the Pac-12 Conference. With a rich history of producing talented players and a passionate fan base, the Wildcats are always looking to improve and compete at the highest level. One of the most important aspects of any football team is its depth chart, which showcases the starting lineup and backup players at each position. In this article, we'll break down the Arizona Wildcats football depth chart and examine the key players and positions that will shape the team's success in the upcoming season.
Offense
The Arizona Wildcats offense is led by quarterback Grant Gunnell, who returns for his second season as the starter. Gunnell had a solid freshman campaign, throwing for over 1,900 yards and 15 touchdowns. He'll be backed up by junior Kevin Doyle, who saw action in several games last season.
At running back, the Wildcats have a talented duo in Gary Brightwell and J.J. Taylor. Brightwell, a junior, led the team in rushing last season with over 1,000 yards, while Taylor, a senior, is a versatile back who can catch passes out of the backfield.
The receiving corps is deep and talented, with senior Cedric Peterson and junior Brian Casteel leading the way. Peterson, a former walk-on, had a breakout season last year, catching 49 passes for over 700 yards.
Offensive Line
The Arizona Wildcats offensive line is a strength of the team, with four returning starters from last season. Senior center Josh McCauley anchors the line, while junior tackles Donovan Laie and Edgar Burrola provide a solid pass-blocking presence.
Defense
The Arizona Wildcats defense is led by defensive coordinator Paul Rhoads, who returns for his second season in the desert. The unit is built around a strong front seven, with senior linebacker Colin Schooler leading the way. Schooler, a Butkus Award candidate, had a monster season last year, recording over 120 tackles and 7.5 sacks.
At defensive tackle, the Wildcats have a talented duo in Dereck Boles and Finton Connolly. Boles, a senior, is a run-stuffer who can also rush the quarterback, while Connolly, a junior, is a pass-rushing specialist.
The secondary is led by senior cornerback Lorenzo Burns, who had a breakout season last year with 4 interceptions. Burns is joined by junior safeties Tristan Cooper and Christian Young, who provide a physical presence in the defensive backfield.
Special Teams
The Arizona Wildcats special teams unit is led by junior kicker Lucas Havrisik, who had a solid season last year, making 12 of 15 field goal attempts. Havrisik is joined by junior punter Dylan Klumph, who averaged over 43 yards per punt last season.
Gallery of Arizona Wildcats Football
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the starting quarterback for the Arizona Wildcats?
+Grant Gunnell is the starting quarterback for the Arizona Wildcats.
Who is the leading rusher for the Arizona Wildcats?
+Gary Brightwell is the leading rusher for the Arizona Wildcats.
Who is the defensive coordinator for the Arizona Wildcats?
+Paul Rhoads is the defensive coordinator for the Arizona Wildcats.