Wildcat Country is quickly becoming hyped up for Saturday’s season opener against Toledo. Rich Rodriguez is making his Arizona coaching debut against the Rockets, who went 9-4 last season. In addition to a winning season, Toledo is coming off of a win in the 2011 Military Bowl, while Arizona was not invited to a bowl last year. Speaking with students, some feel the new coach will be a good fit. Sophomore Cesar Hernandez says that while Rodriguez may need more time to adjust, the fit will eventually be what the team needs. RichRod has a mixed history from his past schools, (he had great success at West Virginia, but struggled at Michigan), and only time can tell how Rodriguez will fit into the Wildcat program. Overall, fans are optimistic for the season, but can only expect so much out of a new coach.
Matt Scott is coming into the spotlight again as UA’s starting quarterback after redshirting last season to ensure his starting position this season. Expected to do well under Coach Rodriguez, Scott is favored by fans such as UA junior Navarre Moore to be a top quarterback in the conference this season. Moore says, “Having Scott being in the spread offense is bound to let him see the field better and allow him to make decisions.”
The ZonaZoo, University of Arizona’s 10,000 strong student section, has begun some serious prep work for Saturday’s game. The Arizona Football Program released a how-to video for the team’s traditional pre-game Haka and many ZonaZoo members are trying to get the hang of it. Also, the student section t-shirt was released for pick up this week. Students in The Zoo can expect temperatures of in the high 90’s for Saturday’s game and only partial cloud coverage. Students who choose to “pre-game” should do so carefully. All students should stock up on water (you can bring one sealed bottle of any size) and not underestimate the heat. Arizona’s students have been known to be a rowdy bunch, which makes for lively game time action. It has been some time since any major incidents have happened, however, showing that while the ZonaZoo keeps it loud, we also keep it classy.
Arizona’s stadium has seen big changes recently. Last season’s introduction of the new video board, which is approximately the size of a basketball court, is followed this season by construction in the north end zone. The project is a complete overhaul, including a complete removal of the old video board and a revamp of the seating. The building behind the stadium seating will house a restaurant open to students, the football headquarters, and for the first time, a connection between the east and west sides of the stadium. Coming after the University installed a wall in front of the ZonaZoo to curtail students rushing the field, these upgrades are welcome additions to the stadium.
With the first game only days away, the pent up energy is almost tangible. Students can’t wait to get this first game underway to start off a new coach, a new season, and a fresh start for ZonaZoo students. The game starts at 7:30, the gates open at 5:30, and the COCA-COLA Fan Fiesta will begin at 4:30.
From the heart of Wildcat Country, Bear Down.
