Entering last week’s game against UCLA, Arizona ranked last in the Pac-12 in third-down defense. The Wildcats limited the Bruins to 4 of 12 conversions, a positive step for a unit that it still figuring itself out.
Arizona’s offense also was last in third-down percentage … and got worse.
With quarterbacks, running backs and offensive linemen shuffling in and out of the lineup, the UA was 3 of 16 on third down against UCLA. At 33.3 percent for the season, Arizona was tied for 108th in the nation entering this weekend. Only five teams from Power Five conferences were worse.
Arizona punted on seven consecutive possessions against UCLA, including six three-and-out drives. As a result, the Wildcats couldn’t accomplish two of UA coach Rich Rodriguez’s main offensive goals: establishing a rhythm and wearing down the opposing defense.
As with Arizona’s defensive issues on third down, the offense’s are more of a first- and second-down problem. When the Wildcats need 3 or fewer yards on third down, they convert at a 68.8 percent rate. When they need 4-6 yards, they’re at 36.4 percent. When they need 7 or more, they’re at 13.8. (Those numbers do not include two end-of-game kneel-downs).
“It’s not like we don’t work on it or aren’t conscious of it,” Rodriguez said. “You’ve just got to execute better.”
Utah ranks ninth in the Pac-12 in third-down percentage (39.7) and fourth in third-down defense (37.7). The Utes have converted a league-high nine fourth downs in 10 attempts. The Wildcats are 3 of 9.
