Arizona could be Pac-10 sleeper
By Mel Kiper Jr.
Entering his second year in Tucson, Arizona coach John Mackovic has a chance to sneak up on opponents who might give heed to some preseason speculation that has tabbed the Wildcats for no better than eighth in the Pac-10.
Based on the struggles of last season, when the Wildcats lost six of their last eight games after a 3-0 start, you can understand why so little is expected of Mackovic's squad this year. However, with little separating the third-best team in the Pac-10 from the seventh- or eighth-best, Arizona has a chance to pull a few surprises along the way.
Arizona had a 5-6 record in coach John Mackovic's first season in Tuscon.
DEFENSE
For that to happen, a suspect defense that allowed 31 or more points in six games last season (including 41 or more points four times) must show significant improvement. With that in mind, Mackovic has placed special emphasis on altering the defensive philosophy in an attempt to reduce the number of big plays allowed. The Wildcats will have more maneuverability up front, sliding into four- or five-man lines, while ensuring that the cornerbacks won't be left on an island (as was the case last season).
The pass rush is a major source of concern. Andre Torrey (6-4, 255), who joined the Wildcats in time for spring practice after coming from the juco ranks, is viewed as their best pass-rushing defensive end.
Of the returning defensive linemen, junior DT Young Thompson had the most sacks last season with just three. To bolster the pass rush, Mackovic shifted Javier Martinez from tight end to defensive end and also moved former tight ends Brad Brittain and Carlos Williams to the defensive line.
The strength of the Wildcats D rests with the back seven, with blue-chip senior MLB Lance Briggs setting the tone. Briggs led the Wildcats in sacks (seven) and tackles last season. Junior OLB Joe Siofele is regarded as the team's third-best defender, behind only Briggs and junior CB Michael Jolivette.
The plan is to flip-flop Jolivette at cornerback, allowing him to match up against the opposition's primary go-to option. Senior FS Jarvie Worcester is also capable. Keep an eye on redshirt freshman Darrell Brooks (6-0, 193) at either cornerback or safety. The athletically gifted Brooks appears to have a bright future in the Pac-10. Given the Wildcats' struggles last season with coverage, Brooks may need to provide a significant contribution.
OFFENSE
The Wildcats scored 28 or more points in eight games last season, averaging 34 points in the final five games.
Underrated senior QB Jason Johnson is one of the best kept secrets in the Pac-10. While his arm strength won't wow you, Johnson is a smart, tough signal caller. Assisting Johnson will be a running game that should be outstanding. Talented junior Clarence Farmer appears ready to establish himself as one of the elite backs not only in the Pac-10 but also nationwide. Meanwhile, redshirt freshman Mike Bell is a potentially intriguing backup.
Versatile senior WR Bobby Wade is a top-flight target for Johnson. Junior Andrae Thurman should ensure that all the attention isn't given to Wade. Senior TE James Hugo, physically imposing at 6-5 and 270 pounds, will look to improve on his nine-catch season of 2001.
Mackovic is hoping that a restructured offensive line can gain the necessary cohesion early in the 2002 season. Senior Makoa Freitas has the ability to be effective at left tackle, but he could move inside to left guard if senior Darren Safranek is ready to claim the left-tackle spot in August after undergoing offseason surgery (shoulder and knee).
OVERVIEW
Last year, after a 3-0 start, the Wildcats may have become overconfident. But while they dropped six of their last eight games, they fell by just three points at Washington and by a TD to USC. With a few breaks and better play on defense, Mackovic could have had Arizona in a bowl game in his first year as head coach in Tucson. This year, though, the Wildcats could be a sleeper team in the Pac-10, provided the offensive line comes together and the defense limits the number of big plays allowed. The D also must generate more heat on opposing QBs.
On offense, QB Johnson is as tough and gritty as they come, while the skill-position talent (including Farmer, Wade and Thurman) has few peers in the Pac-10. The early schedule is also favorable, with four of the first five games at home. A key measuring stick will be a nonconference road encounter vs. coach Barry Alvarez and Wisconsin on Sept. 21. Two weeks later, the Wildcats open the Pac-10 season by hosting last year's conference champ, Oregon.
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