Arizona Football: 3 bold predictions vs. Hawaii in Week 0

TUCSON, AZ - SEPTEMBER 01: Quarterback Khalil Tate #14 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts after rushing the football against the Brigham Young Cougars during the first half of the college football game at Arizona Stadium on September 1, 2018 in Tucson, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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TUCSON, AZ – NOVEMBER 24: Quarterback Khalil Tate #14 of the Arizona Wildcats looks to throw a pass as he rolls out against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the first half of the college football game at Arizona Stadium on November 24, 2018 in Tucson, Arizona. (Photo by Ralph Freso/Getty Images) /

3. We’ll see the old Khalil Tate

In 2017, Khalil Tate was an electric, dynamic player. He was a great runner, accounting for 1,411 yards and 12 touchdowns on the ground as a quarterback. He was serviceable through the air, but he did throw a few too many interceptions. Overall, however, it was a great trajectory to be on as a sophomore.

Last year was a disappointment. Under the new Noel Mazzone offense, Tate became a one-dimensional player. Coupled with an early-season ankle ailment, his rushing numbers dropped dramatically by nearly 1,200 yards. His completion percentage also dipped from 62 to 56.3.

Now, Tate enters his senior season. He’ll once again be healthy. Because he was forced to stand in the pocket more often in 2018, he certainly gained experienced in the area of his game that he wasn’t previously comfortable with.

For Arizona to have a successful 2019 campaign, Khalil Tate will have to play more like the old Khalil Tate. It will be exciting to see how he opens this season.

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