Coach Brent Brennan Speaks on Arizona’s Big 12 Home Opener Against Texas Tech

Coming off a huge win at the University of Utah this past weekend, Arizona football is looking to capture a second Big 12 win at home versus Texas Tech. The talented Arizona team displayed their depth against Utah, as all three facets of the Wildcat’s game were firing on all cylinders. Arizona’s newfound momentum will be pivotal in the upcoming matchup this Saturday.

Texas Tech will prove to be an entirely different challenge for Arizona, as the Red Raider’s success this season has resulted from a top-ranked offensive line. Texas has averaged a staggering 41.6 points per game this season, led by QB Behren Morton. The Texas offense has managed their success this season by running a steady tempo offense, through efficiency on downs and Morton’s ability to make key plays at any point during the game. Star running back Tahj Brooks and wide receiver Josh Kelly have also contributed heavily to the success of the Texas offense. 

The performance of Arizona’s offense has been up and down this season, averaging 8.6 yards per play as well as going 3 for 14 on third downs against Utah. Both Arizona fans and coaching staff are hoping to see a more sound offensive performance this weekend. As opposed to their number 1 ranked offense, the Texas Tech defense is dead last in the Big 12 conference, allowing 34.4 points per game. Arizona should have a great chance to prove the ability and talent of their offensive line this weekend.

When asked about the role of Arizona’s offense this Saturday, Brennan responded by stating “The important part is hopefully being more efficient on first and second downs so you’re not in those big third down situations… but some of those teams you play, there’s gonna be some loss of yardage plays. Everyone’s good, everyone we’re playing is good.” Arizona will need to capitalize early on downs, as well maintaining speed and tempo to match Texas Tech’s offense. 

 Arizona also faces a unique disadvantage, as the Wildcats football program entered the Big-12 conference just this year. The game against Utah was the first Big -12 win in the history of the Arizona football program, making it extremely special and creating a large momentum shift for the Arizona football team. However, maintaining this momentum may prove to be difficult for the team as well as the coaching staff. 

Brennan responded to these concerns by saying “For the people that have been in the Big-12 conference, they know all these teams. They know all these coaching staffs. They know all these venues. It’s all new for us, right? So it’s something that we have to totally get used to. Texas Tech hasn’t been on the schedule for us since these kids have been here, so it’s a totally new opponent… We need to bring our best game Saturday.” Arizona proved last weekend that they are a force to be reckoned with in the Big-12 conference, and playing Texas Tech at home will be an opportunity for coach Brennan and the Wildcats to cement themselves amongst the top teams in the nation.