Arizona head coach Brent Brennan took full responsibility for quarterback Noah Fifita’s struggles last season, when the Wildcats finished 3-9 after early expectations had Fifita mentioned as a Heisman dark horse.
Speaking at Big 12 Media Days, Brennan didn’t make excuses for his sophomore quarterback’s step back.
“Noah taking a step back was my fault. But come December, everyone will be talking about Noah.”
Fifita threw for nearly 3,000 yards with 18 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 2023. But consistency was the issue as Arizona lost seven of its last eight games.
Brennan said the junior quarterback is ready to thrive under a more stable system this season.
The Wildcats are also dealing with the departure of Tetairoa McMillan, who was selected in the first round by the Carolina Panthers this spring. McMillan joins head coach Dave Canales’ new offense in Charlotte.
“I’m excited to see what he’s going to do in Coach Dave’s offense. This is the perfect fit for him, and it’s his time to shine. T-Mac’s going to crush it in the NFL.”
Replacing McMillan’s production won’t be easy. But Brennan said Arizona’s receiver room has depth ready to step up.
He highlighted Luke Weisse, Tre Spivey and Chris Hudson as key contributors. Brennan also mentioned the development of Genesis Smith, who stayed at Arizona despite transfer portal interest.
“We put enough wideouts in that room, putting up skill positions around [Noah] and an offensive front. Luke Wysong, Trey Spivey, Chris Hunter — so there’s a lot of change there, but also a good influx of what we consider high-level talent.”
Brennan is now in his second season in Tucson after spending seven years at San José State. He said he’s learned that program building comes down to having the right people who want to be there.
“I learned the transition is tough, and the only way to move forward is the people that want to be there, that are totally committed and really connected.”
Arizona opens its season this fall with Fifita leading Brennan’s offense. The head coach remains confident that better days — and those promised December headlines — are ahead for the Wildcats.
