wildcats Rebound with Dominant Win Over Disrupted Oklahoma State
STILLWATER, OKLAHOMA – Arizona football decisively defeated Oklahoma State 34-27 Saturday, delivering a much-needed confidence boost following recent struggles and capitalizing on a Cowboys program in turmoil. Teh victory marks Arizona’s third win of the season and provides a positive trajectory as they prepare for a challenging upcoming schedule.
Oklahoma State entered the game reeling from the recent firings of it’s head coach and defensive coordinator,with several players already utilizing the transfer portal. For Arizona,the contest presented an prospect to regain momentum,execute efficiently,and secure a win – goals that head coach Brent Brennan and his team ultimately achieved.
Offensive coordinator Seth Fine crafted a game plan initially focused on establishing a strong running game.When Oklahoma State adjusted, Fine seamlessly transitioned to exploiting the defense through the air, notably utilizing receiver Tetairoa McMillen (Fifita). The Wildcats’ offense proved adaptable and effective, keeping the Cowboys’ defense off balance.
Defensively, the Wildcats’ unit, led by coordinator Tony Gonzales, delivered a strong performance, forcing two turnovers and holding Oklahoma State scoreless for the third game this season. This defensive resilience proved crucial in securing the victory.
However, special teams continue to be a point of concern. Coach Craig Naivar’s unit struggled with execution, exhibiting issues with punt returns, missed field goals, and a lack of consistent focus. These errors represent a growing trend that, if unaddressed, could prove costly in future games.
Looking ahead, Arizona will now focus on preparing for an undefeated BYU team, aiming to refine their gameplay and maintain their winning momentum.