Arizona Wildcats Football Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

From a dismal 2024 season to a triumphant 2025 campaign, the Arizona Wildcats football teams resurgence is nothing short of remarkable. Under head coach Brent Brennan, the teams offense skyrocketed from 5.5 yards per play to nearly 33 points per game, while their defense improved dramatically, allowing just 19 points per game. This transformation, largely due to a second year under the same coaching staff, has propelled the Wildcats to a 17th ranking in the College Football Playoff and a Holiday Bowl appearance, signaling a potential era of sustained success.

Brent Brennan, now head coach of Arizona football, returns to the Holiday Bowl, this time leading his team at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego. The venue change and his new role highlight the evolution since his last visit in 1998, when he cheered on his brother Brad, a wide receiver for the Wildcats. Brad, now a family member and friend, will support Brent as he faces SMU in the Trust and Will Holiday Bowl on January 2nd. This game marks a full-circle moment for the Brennan family, promising another memorable chapter in their football story.

SMUs offense, led by quarterback Kevin Jennings, has been a powerhouse this season, with Jennings throwing for over 3,300 yards and 26 touchdowns. Top target Riley Hudson has been instrumental, earning All-ACC Third Team honors with 56 receptions for 749 yards and 6 touchdowns. Running back Tre Siggers provides balance, rushing for 747 yards and 7 touchdowns. On defense, defensive end JaCquez Williams leads with 8.5 sacks, while safety Brandon Moses leads with 5 interceptions and 91 tackles. SMU needs these key players to perform at their best to close out the season strong.

The Wildcats defense, led by standout safety Dalton Johnson, cornerback Smith, and senior cornerback Stukes, has been instrumental in their success this season. Johnsons impressive tackle and turnover numbers, Smiths versatility, and Stukes experience and leadership have all contributed to a top-tier defense. Linebackers Max Harris and Taye Brown also play significant roles, providing strong run support and crucial stops. This defensive depth will be crucial as they head into their bowl game.

Arizona Wildcats head to San Diego for the Holiday Bowl, seeking their tenth win against Southern Methodist University. After a remarkable turnaround, Coach Brent Brennans team has secured five straight victories, including reclaiming the Territorial Cup. The focus now shifts to retaining key coaches, Seth Doege and Danny Gonzales, who have significantly improved the offense and defense respectively, to maintain the teams momentum.

Noah Fifitas breakout season as quarterback, Ismail Mahdis powerful running, and the versatile receiving corps led by Kris Hutson and Javin Whatley make the Arizona Wildcats a formidable dual-threat offense, poised to challenge opponents in their final game against SMU.

University of Arizona Wildcats face Southern Methodist University in the Holiday Bowl, marking their first appearance since 2008. Wildcats enter on a five-game winning streak, led by QB Noah Fifita, who broke the schools all-time passing TD record. SMU boasts a dynamic passing offense, led by QB Kevin Jennings, ranking 9th in FBS for passing yards per game. The game promises a thrilling matchup between Arizonas strong secondary and SMUs balanced offense.

Amidst college footballs national turmoil, Arizona Wildcats and Sun Devils buck the trend, securing Holiday Bowl and Sun Bowl appearances, respectively. These bowl berths signal a positive trajectory for both universities, positioning them for continued growth and improved recruiting in a challenging landscape.