The initial year under head coach Brent Brennan for the Arizona Wildcats has been assessed as a significant disappointment; however, signs of improvement are emerging in the current season. In a decisive game this past Saturday, Arizona demonstrated their progress by matching their win total from the previous year, overpowering Oklahoma State 41-13 at Arizona Stadium.
Quarterback Noah Fifita showcased his talent, throwing five touchdown passes—two to Tre Spivey—and leading the Wildcats (4-1, 1-1 Big 12) to a dominant victory over the Cowboys (1-4, 0-2). Arizona’s offense outgained Oklahoma State significantly, racking up 320 more yards while also forcing two turnovers and recording three sacks, underscoring a strong defensive performance.
Fifita completed 28 of his 38 attempts for a total of 376 yards, equaling his career high in touchdown passes, a feat he has achieved on four occasions; he now shares the third spot on the University of Arizona’s all-time touchdown list with Khalil Tate with 67 touchdowns. Additionally, he surpassed Anu Solomon to reach fourth in career passing yards.
Spivey’s impact on the game was notable, with three receptions totaling 80 yards, including a score that showcased his physicality after the catch. Luke Wysong also made significant contributions, finishing with 92 yards and a touchdown on five receptions along with 47 yards in punt returns.
Despite the offensive fireworks, Arizona’s ground game struggled, accumulating only 45 yards on 33 attempts. This statistic was somewhat skewed due to the six sacks given up by the offensive line and a lost yardage from a recovered fumble. Defensively, Arizona achieved a remarkable feat, limiting Oklahoma State to just 158 total yards, the fewest allowed by the Wildcats since a notable victory against Cal in 2021.
The game featured its share of mistakes for Arizona, including three turnovers—one of which was a pick-six thrown by backup quarterback Braedyn Locke. Kicker Michael Salgado-Medina had mixed results, missing a long field goal but also nailing a remarkable 57-yarder.
Arizona controlled the game from the start, leading 24-6 at halftime with an impressive disparity in total yardage (313 to 100). Defensive play was highlighted as Jay’Vion Cole intercepted an OSU pass on the opening play of the second half, further showcasing Arizona’s solid performance.
The scoring continued as Fifita connected with Nunu Whatley for a 21-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 31-6. Not long after, he found Chris Hunter for a 29-yard pass that capped the Wildcats’ scoring at 38-6. Although Oklahoma State managed to score on an interception return for a touchdown midway through the fourth quarter, Arizona’s defense has impressively yet to allow a passing touchdown this season.
As the Wildcats prepare to return home for Family Weekend against No. 23 BYU, coming off a victory against West Virginia, they will be looking to maintain their momentum and build on the positive notes from this game. This latest win not only boosts the team’s confidence but also sets a hopeful tone for the remainder of the season.