Arizona Football 2022 Preview: A Reason For Hope

Veteran DB Group headlines improved Wildcat defense

New defensive coordinator Johnny Nansen comes in looking to build off the improvement that the defense showed last year. Despite being 1-11, the defense held opponents on average to under 400 YPG for the first time since 2010, especially impressive considering the struggles that Arizona had on offense.

The defensive line looks to be a strength, with the possibility of a three-deep rotation to keep players fresh throughout the game.

Led by Kyon Barrs, this is a solid group that needs to generate a pass rush to alleviate the stress put on the defensive backs, especially in the red zone where the defense struggled last season. Russell Davis II is one player who has been standing out in fall practice and could help generate that rush.

At linebacker, there are a few more questions. Jerry Roberts and Michigan transfer Anthony Sullivan need to step up and lead the group. The young group around them needs to emerge quickly or this group could be a liability.

Christian Young leads the defensive backs and should be in the running for a spot on the all-conference team. This group returns six players from last season and with improvement in red zone coverage they should be in line for an even better season than last year. The biggest thing lacking was turnovers, which needs to be an area of improvement this year