Arizona fans have long yearned for a revival of the program’s brighter moments. The Wildcats, now under head coach Brent Brennan, are entering the upcoming matchup against West Virginia with optimism that the good old days may finally be back.
Recent progress under Coach Brennan
Since taking the helm, Brennan has steadied a ship that struggled after the Rich Rodriguez era (2012‑2017). The Wildcats posted a 43‑35 record during Rodriguez’s tenure, highlighted by three bowl victories, a Pac‑12 South Division title and several upset wins. After a turbulent stretch that left the program 42‑54 without Rodriguez, the team has begun to find consistency.
Last week’s victory over Cincinnati was a clear indicator of that progress. The win, described by many as one of Brennan’s best performances, showcased a balanced team effort and suggested the roster he and his staff have built can compete in the upper echelon of the Big 12.
Facing West Virginia without star receivers
The Wildcats travel to Morgantown for a 9 a.m. Arizona‑time kickoff, a challenging early‑morning start that tests any team’s preparation. Arizona enters the game as a field‑goal favorite, but the absence of its top three wide receivers and the No. 1 tight end is a notable handicap.
“We’re not in the excuse‑making business,” Brennan said. “We’re attacking the challenge ahead of us, which is playing a good West Virginia team at their place on Saturday.” His remarks underscore a refusal to let adversity dictate the outcome.
Why the game matters for the program’s trajectory
Arizona’s last back‑to‑back winning seasons came in 2014 and 2015, and the program has since oscillated between brief flashes of success and longer periods of struggle. A win in Morgantown would add another positive data point to the growing list of signs that the Wildcats are returning to form.
Supporters of the team argue that competitive, winning football is a reasonable expectation for a university with a proud tradition. While some fans still hope for consistent conference and national championship contention, many are satisfied that the Wildcats are once again competitive on a weekly basis.
Looking ahead
The remainder of the season still holds many games, but the West Virginia contest offers a litmus test for Brennan’s squad. If Arizona can overcome the travel fatigue, early kickoff and missing playmakers, it will demonstrate resilience and a capacity to win despite obstacles—qualities that defined the program’s most celebrated eras.
Regardless of the final score, the Wildcats’ performance will be a barometer for the program’s direction. A strong showing could cement the belief that the good old days are not just nostalgia but a realistic goal within reach.
Community perspective
Arizona supporters across the state are encouraged to rally behind the team, recognizing that a thriving football program contributes to school spirit, local pride, and the broader community’s sense of identity. As the Wildcats prepare for the challenge, fans are reminded that perseverance and faith in the coaching staff are essential ingredients for sustained success.
Original reporting: Arizona Desert Swarm (Tucson Sports) — read the source article.
