By Zack Rosenblatt / Arizona Daily Star
Khalil Tate has, so far, shunned newfound fame in favor of focus and humility. He’s talked about being happy as long as his team is happy and winning, and both are happening right now. He doesn’t tweet anymore and only occasionally posts photos on Instagram.
In the social media age, he’s avoided the hubbub.
Arizona, meanwhile, should start up the hype machine. It would help even more in recruiting.
Less than a week after Tate set an FBS rushing record for quarterbacks against Colorado, gaining 327 yards on the ground in a 45-42 win and thus bursting into the national consciousness, four-star 2018 athlete Bryan Addison unveiled his five finalists. Arizona made the cut, as did Arizona State, UCLA, Nebraska and Michigan. Addison plays at Serra High School in Gardena, California. That’s Tate’s alma mater.
The Wildcats have secured three verbal commitments since Tate’s record-setting night against Colorado and are closing in on a full class of commitments already, two months before December’s early signing day.
“Maybe they’re answering the calls quicker,” UA coach Rich Rodriguez joked this week.
Maybe that’s because of Tate, maybe it’s because the team has some positive momentum after two straight wins and is in the thick of the Pac-12 South race.
But let’s explore the idea of Tate making an impact on Arizona’s recruitment in Southern California. Here are three things to consider:
