BOULDER, Colo. – Arizona Wildcats quarterback Khalil Tate is expected to start against Colorado this afternoon after missing last week’s game against UCLA.

Tate missed the game against the Bruins because of hamstring and ankle injuries. He practiced for most of the week and played catch during early warmups, throwing 50-yard passes to receivers Brian Casteel and Cedric Peterson. Tate appeared to be moving around well.

Tate was in full uniform after that, participating in 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 work. Barring a last-minute setback, it appears he'll be back. Freshman Grant Gunnell will return to his No. 2 QB role.

Tailback J.J. Taylor (ankle) also appears set to return after sitting out against UCLA. Tate also participated in early warmups, with both ankles heavily taped. He took the usual amount of reps during 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 work.


Additional observations from warmups before today's kickoff (1:30 p.m., Pac-12 Networks):

* Star Colorado receiver Laviska Shenault Jr. dressed and participated in warmups. He also lined up with the first team for 11-on-11 work. Shenault was considered a game-time decision because of an undisclosed injury.

* Arizona showed a four-man defensive line during 11-on-11. The first unit: Jalen Harris, Trevon Mason, Finton Connolly and JB Brown. The second group: Justin Belknap, Myles Tapusoa, Kyon Barrs and Kylan Wilborn.

* UA senior Malcolm Holland has switched from cornerback to receiver and from No. 10 to No. 12.

Be sure to check Tucson.com and the Wildcaster app for updates during and after the game. You can also follow me on Twitter at @michaeljlev.


Become a #ThisIsTucson member! Your contribution helps our team bring you stories that keep you connected to the community. Become a member today.

Contact sports reporter Michael Lev at 573-4148 or mlev@tucson.com. On Twitter @michaeljlev