Arizona Football: Wildcats starting from scratch under new coaching staff

QB competition headlines list of issues for Wildcats offense in 2021

This is going to be a brand new look for the Arizona football program that has been accustomed to spread offenses and up-tempo schemes. Jedd Fisch and offensive coordinator Brennan Carroll are going to bring a more pro-style attack to Tucson and their first order of business is going to be identifying a quarterback.

Last year’s starter at QB Grant Gunnell decided to transfer to Memphis and that has left freshman Will Plummer, Washington State transfer Gunner Cruz and USF transfer Jordan McCloud.

Plummer was thrown into the fire a bit last season and looked very shaky at times. I will give him the edge for the time being because of his experience, but this is really anybody’s job to lose.

At running back, Michael Wiley is going to be getting the start, but there are a number of guys that I think are going to have an opportunity to carry the football for the Wildcats.

Wiley is going to lead the way after rushing for over 200 yards last season. Look for Northwestern transfer Drake Anderson to get some carries after being mostly a backup the last couple of seasons.

Stanley Berryhill III was the leading receiver for Arizona last season and he returns in 2021. Boobie Curry and Jamarye Joiner are going to be back as well, as is senior tight end Bryce Wolma.

There aren’t a lot of standout options at receiver so someone is going to have to take a major step forward for the Wildcats.

The offensive line is going to return four starters, but they are going to have to be much better than they were last season. This is an offense devoid of a lot of talent and it is going to be about finding the right pieces for the future.