Gameweek Arizona - Desperation Saturday

We thought this game would be a test for the Bruins, and that we would lose.  That was our prediction pre-season, even though we thought Arizona would be mediocre at best.  But Arizona has not lived up to even our mediocre prediction.  They have been awful in amassing a 2-3 record.  A quick look at the commentary and it appears their young offensive line has thwarted many drives with many mistakes and penalties, and conservative play-calling hasn’t helped.  Sounds like they are having some of the same problems we are.  It appears that their offense may be playing right into our newfound defensive capabilities as well.  DC Walker and Co say they are looking for another shut out.  They said the same thing about Washington and didn’t get it done, so let’s hope one game against the worst team in the country isn’t getting to their heads.

We believe that our preseason prediction is wrong on Arizona and that we will win.  We think offensively Arizona will not have near the same success as they had last year when they humiliated us and put 300+ yards rushing and 50+ points on the board in ending our unbeaten streak.  Arizona is near dead last in offense in the country, #109, putting up 250+ yards per game. Defensively, Arizona is not the force they expected to be either.  Currently, they are ranked #86 nationally in yards against at 370 per game.  In rushing, they allow an average 130+ yards.  So, we are hoping now is the time Svoboda tests Arizona’s rushing and passing defense, unlike last week when he failed to thoroughly test the nation’s worst rushing defense. Mix it up Jim!! 

There is something to note about the Arizona stats.  Arizona amassed their awful stats playing LSU away, USC, Washington and BYU, all great or at least average teams.  If our stats were only the Washington game stats, we would not look as good either.  So these Arizona stats are somewhat misleading.  Against an average team, Arizona may put up better numbers. Lets remember also that UCLA could not put up big yards against the worst defense in the country, only 390 to Stanford’s normal 470 yards against. 

If we cannot put up 300 yards against Arizona, look for this game to be close.

Finally, although Arizona is 2-3 and still looking to a bowl game, Stoops and Co find themselves in a bit of a desperation game.  They are 0-2 in the Pac-10 and need to get back on track to save their season.  A clean game on their part can eliminate some of the frustration they have experienced in building momentum on drives.  If they are close to mistake free, they can be dangerous.  We have to watch out for Arizona building any momentum. They are desperate for a win and they know what they did against us last year.  We are potentially a saving grace for this team.  Nevertheless, we think KD will get a win here.  Without mistakes, we will put some distance on the board.

If KD loses, look for the excuses to come. Growth, mistakes, the same key words that have become hallmark of mediocre coaches like KD.  Remember, this his his “best team  yet.” Let’s play like it KD.  Let’s get it done. Go Bruins!!

More tomorrow …

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