What Brent Brennan, Noah Fifita and Quali Conley said after Arizona’s season-opening win over New Mexico

In the previous two instances where Arizona had a coach making his debut, the outcomes were less than favorable. While some may consider Brent Brennan's inaugural game to be underwhelming, the most significant distinction between Saturday night's 61-39 victory over New Mexico and those earlier occasions lies in the outcome of the match. "Winning a college football game is challenging," Brennan remarked following the game, describing his first victory as "fantastic." Despite the final score being decisive, the Wildcats found themselves trailing late in the first half before they shifted into a higher gear. This capacity to respond was one of the aspects that pleased Brennan the most. "I was thrilled with how we regrouped in the second half and executed effective team football," he stated. "What we need to establish is the rhythm we are aiming for, where we complement one another." A recap of the game can be accessed here, along with an overview of the standout performers. Below are the comments made by Brennan, quarterback Noah Fifita, and running back Quali Conley after the game.

“The yards have after catch. Those big explosives were just incredible. Outran the whole secondary on the big one down the sideline. He’s an awesome competitor, and he’s also not satisfied. He thinks he can play better. It’s what you hope for.”

He was prompted with, “Not in that manner, but rather similarly. I believe we had a comparable instance with Brandin Cooks at Oregon State.” She remarked, “The most challenging aspect of training camp is engaging in live football and executing tackles, as there is a constant concern about preserving key players for the game. This concern makes it particularly difficult. However, I felt they composed themselves well in the second half and managed to force a few turnovers. The quarterback from New Mexico is quite talented, exceptionally athletic, and possesses strength. He is capable of making throws while on the move, which presents a significant challenge for any defense.” Regarding his halftime message to the team, he stated, “The primary point I conveyed was to cease worrying about the final score and focus on the present moment. I urged them to stop glancing at the scoreboard and simply play football. We have a game tonight, and everyone is capable of contributing. While some teams may be stronger or possess superior players, every team has the ability to compete. I believed New Mexico had a solid strategy and executed it effectively.

In the second half, we made some beneficial adjustments, and the players united, demonstrating teamwork, which led to a positive outcome.” When asked why Arizona did not run the ball frequently in the first half, he explained, “At first, we were not applying significant pressure, which allowed us to make some cleaner throws. As the game progressed, we began to feel the pressure, prompting us to consider how to release the ball more effectively. After halftime, we focused on understanding their defensive schemes in various situations to enhance our running game. I was thrilled with our blocking performance.”

Regarding his observations about the team: "I have learned that they possess remarkable resilience, which holds significant value for them. Additionally, it has become evident that we must address the issue of selfish penalties, as these have prolonged at least two or three drives, indicating that we have room for improvement. This is a positive sign, as the team is eager to excel and has demonstrated considerable effort thus far. They are committed to rectifying these issues." Concerning freshman Matthew Lado's performance at tackle: "We were still able to advance the ball effectively during his time on the field, which is quite impressive. When I arrived, he was among the individuals who joined the team five days earlier, and I believe Big Josh has done an excellent job in coaching him." On Jonah Savaiinaea’s adaptability at tackle: "Big Jonah exhibits an exceptional level of commitment and possesses significant talent. His versatility will greatly benefit our football team this season and will also serve him well as he progresses to the next level." On whether wearing leis will become his trademark style: "It becomes a signature look when you receive one from Noah Fifita’s grandmother and another from Tetairoa McMillan’s mother. It is a truly remarkable gesture."

On the necessity of identifying additional receiving options if T-Mac faces double coverage: "Having spent my entire career in offense, I understand that when you have a player of that caliber, defenses will inevitably adjust their coverage to limit his impact. Consequently, it is crucial for other players to rise to the occasion. I was particularly impressed by Keyan Burnett's execution of a flag route in the first half. The tight end position has been instrumental in our success, and I believe there is significant potential with Montana (Lemonious-Craig) and the rest of the receiving group, including Jeremiah (Patterson) and Malachi (Riley). Chris Hunter also made a commendable catch on the sideline during a switch smash concept. There is ample opportunity for them to contribute, especially if they choose to single-cover T-Mac; the ball will find its way to him."  Regarding Tyler Loop's successful field goals from distances of 46 and 54 yards, it was remarked, “He is an exceptional player. When you have someone capable of making kicks from 50 or 60 yards, along with consistently achieving touchbacks, it speaks volumes. His confidence is remarkable.”

Noah Fifita commented on T-Mac, stating, “If individuals had been attentive to my interviews throughout the offseason, they might have perceived me as exaggerating. However, he has once again demonstrated that he is the premier player in the nation, as evidenced by his statistics. You are putting me in a difficult position, but I believe this may be his finest performance.” On encountering T-Mac in single coverage, he expressed, “I was quite surprised, yet also pleased. Each time they leave him in single coverage, it turns out to be a favorable situation.” Regarding T-Mac's yards after the catch, he noted, “We found it amusing on the sidelines. He appears to be more at ease after making the catch.” On the recent victory, he stated, “Every win is significant. New Mexico performed exceptionally well and played a commendable game. As Coach B mentioned in the locker room, every victory is a blessing. We are aware that we cannot be complacent, as there are numerous aspects we need to improve on both offense and defense.” On Lado's performance, he remarked, “He played exceptionally well. I was not pressured while he was on the field. The key was his ability to instill confidence in us, ensuring we could rely on him. He had an excellent training camp and has been diligent since his arrival.” On the need to distribute the ball more effectively, he acknowledged, “We possess numerous options at both the receiver and tight end positions. I accept full accountability for not utilizing our resources more effectively.” Concerning the defensive challenges, he stated, “Our defense is outstanding. Regardless of what others may say, they are resilient fighters. We have no concerns in that regard, as we know they will support us during tough times.” On Savaiinaea, he concluded, “He is truly exceptional. This has been evident since his arrival on campus. He began as a true freshman at guard, transitioned to right tackle last year, and has now moved to left tackle following Rhino's injury. As an offensive lineman, he may not receive the recognition he deserves, but he is undoubtedly a first-round draft prospect.”