As the Arizona Wildcats prepare for the Holiday Bowl against SMU, both teams have distinct storylines heading into the game. Arizona seeks to build on its remarkable turnaround, while SMU aims to break its bowl game drought.
Arizona’s Impressive Season
The Wildcats enter the Holiday Bowl with a 9-3 record. This season has marked significant progress, with Arizona achieving a five-game winning streak in November, the first in the program’s history. Notable victories include road wins against Cincinnati and Arizona State.
A win in the Holiday Bowl would secure the Wildcats’ largest year-over-year improvement, showcasing a strong effort after back-to-back narrow losses to ranked teams. Coach Brent Brennan emphasized the significance of making a bowl game, viewing it as an opportunity for extended play and growth.
Holiday Bowl Matchup
This year’s Holiday Bowl will be held at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego. Arizona and SMU have contrasting bowl histories. The Wildcats hold a 1-1 record in this bowl, winning their first appearance in 1998 but losing in 2009. Conversely, SMU, with an 8-4 season, has struggled in recent bowl games, losing its last four, with the last victory dating back to 2012.
Key Players to Watch
- Arizona Wildcats:
- Noah Fifita: Currently the career touchdown leader for UA, aiming for a record-setting season.
- Tia Savea: Expected to return after missing the last three games of the regular season.
- SMU Mustangs:
- Kevin Jennings: The junior quarterback has thrown for 3,363 yards and 26 touchdowns this season.
Strategic Insights
Arizona’s defense has excelled, allowing fewer than 200 passing yards in their last eight games, a feat not seen in FBS since 2004. To extend this streak, they will need to counter SMU’s potent offense, ranked 12th in the nation for passing yards.
On the other hand, SMU’s defense struggles against the pass, ranking near the bottom in the nation, allowing 284.7 yards per game. With significant vulnerabilities, Arizona could exploit this opportunity through the air.
Looking Ahead
The Holiday Bowl not only represents a chance for a memorable season finale but also a pivotal moment for player legacies. A victory could enhance the prospects of many Arizona players as they transition into their next phases.
With anticipation building, fans from both teams eagerly await the Holiday Bowl showdown, hoping for a thrilling conclusion to the college football season.
