Here are three things to watch in Saturday’s Arizona-Oregon State game at Reser Stadium (8:30 p.m., Pac-12 Networks), plus a score prediction and some pertinent preview links:
1. FIRST THINGS FIRST
I can’t emphasize this enough: The first quarter is absolutely critical for the Wildcats, for several reasons. For one thing, a strong start would do wonders for their confidence. A Portland radio host asked me Friday whether there were any signs that the Cats had quit on Rich Rodriguez. I don’t see or sense that. But when things don’t go right – repeatedly – it’s difficult to play with the same verve and swagger. Arizona failed to score in the first quarter in the past three games, falling behind by 14, 38 and seven points. When the UA tied Colorado in the second quarter, it felt momentous. It was the first time Arizona had been tied at any point since the USC game on Oct. 15. The score absolutely matters. When you’re ahead, the other team feels pressure and is more apt to make mistakes. When you’re behind – an all-too-familiar position for the Wildcats – it’s easy to slip out of your comfort zone. Arizona won’t be comfortable in cold, rainy Corvallis – another reason a solid start is essential. The longer they believe they can win, the longer the Wildcats will remain engaged.
2. QUARTERBACKS, PART 11
Does RichRod finally give Anu Solomon a chance to start? Does it matter? Rodriguez has stuck with Brandon Dawkins, despite his regression as a passer, because he provides a running threat that Solomon doesn’t. Given Oregon State’s defensive tendencies – better against the pass than run – it might make more sense to start Dawkins this week. On the other hand, Solomon does a better job of getting the other playmakers involved, and there’s something to be said for that. Trey Griffey was a non-factor against Colorado. That’s suboptimal. If he does intend to go with Dawkins again, Rodriguez needs to make a concerted effort to bring Solomon in earlier. If that requires a set plan, regardless of the score, so be it. It was unfair to Solomon to wait as long as Rodriguez did last week. Solomon entered with 57 seconds left in the third quarter and the score 42-10 – basically an impossible situation. If he plays in the first half, he at least has a chance to run the offense without the defense knowing what’s coming.
3. THE REPLACEMENTS
As you can see below, I picked the Wildcats to win (for whatever that’s worth). I’ll admit I’m a little concerned about injuries, however. The injury report seemed tame compared to some others from earlier this season, but it still contained some key names. I’m particularly worried about the offensive line. Gerhard de Beer (knee) is out again. That in and of itself can be overcome. But if right guard Jacob Alsadek (ankle; questionable) also can’t play, suddenly Arizona would be without both of its right-side starters. That’s potentially problematic. On defense, “Will” linebacker Paul Magloire is doubtful because of a groin injury. I wouldn’t expect him to play. Magloire has his critics, but he has played better in recent weeks, leads the team in tackles (67) and is among the leaders in stops for losses (5.5) and sacks (2.5). Former walk-on Brandon Rutt, who had an interception last week, likely will start. If DeAndre’ Miller – not listed on the injury report but slowed recently by an ankle injury – remains out of the starting lineup, the Wildcats would be without all three of their first-team linebackers from the first two weeks of the season.
FINAL SCORE: Arizona 24, Oregon State 21
PREVIEW LINKS:
Same records, different expectations for Arizona, Oregon State
Greg Hansen: Wildcats prepare to get rained on in Corvallis
Arizona-OSU storylines: On Mashack's support, Pollack's struggles, QB inconsistency
