The Arizona Wildcats are hoping to get off to a fast start this upcoming season and that starts with their first game against UNLV. They finished offseason with a conclusion of their quarterback competition. The team released their depth chart and revealed that redshirt freshman Anu Solomon would be the team's starter. It is a surprising move for the Wildcats. Many assumed that USC transfer Jesse Scroggins or Texas Connor Brewer would end up winning the job. Head coach Rich Rodriguez indicated that Solomon would start the game, but he might not finish it depending on how things look. The three-star prospect might win the first step, but it is expected that Scroggins sees playing time.
Both UNLV and Arizona ended their seasons on high notes thus past year. They each won their bowl games and have higher expectations for the year ahead. The Wildcats are on their third quarterback in three years, making consistency an issue, but if Solomon looks strong, he could be around for awhile. Arizona has scheduling in their favor. They start out with three relatively easy opponents before facing Oregon on the road. Rodriguez is implementing a fast-paced offense in order to keep up. Running back DaVonte Neal will play a big part in that effort. He will pair up with wide receiver Cayleb Jones to make a dynamic offense this season.
UNLV will start Blake Decker at quarterback. He is the team's first junior college transfer to start for UNLV since 1999. The 23-year-old played at Scottsdale Community College prior to transferring. The team is getting much better under the direction of fifth-year head coach Bobby Hauck. They will face a challenge against Arizona having to play the Wildcats on the road. They opened last season by losing back-to-back games and are hoping to avoid that this year.
