PAC 12 Breakout Players: Arizona Wildcats

WR DaVonte’ Neal

With no quarterback looking particularly impressive in camp, and no running back stepping up to share the load, it may seem odd that a receiver is on the verge of a breakout year. Neal could be an exception. Finally getting to play a year after his hardship waiver was declined by the NCAA, the Notre Dame-transfer is the kind of player who can be a star in Rich Rodriguez’ offense. Neal was used mostly as a punt returner in his first season with the Fighting Irish, returning 21 for just 46 yards. He also caught a pass for -5 yards and had a 7-yard run. At the end of the year, he decided to transfer to be closer to his young family.

After a year learning the system and playing on the scout team, Neal is ready to wreak havoc on the PAC 12. A 5’10, 176-pound jitterbug who works his best in space, RichRod will endeavor to get the ball to him in a variety of ways. He’s likely to take over the return jobs, but expect to see plenty of bubble screens and fly sweeps (or the Arizona equivalent) to put the ball in his hands and some hop in his step. Watch for him at the top of the “All-Purpose Yards” charts at the end of the season.

 

LB Scooby Wright

The Wildcats lose a pair of seasoned starters in Jake Fischer and Marquis Flowers to graduation, but there is some comfort in the return of Scooby Wright, who had a fine freshman year. Wright made 83 tackles from the strong side last season, good for joint-third on the team, with nine on the opponents’ side of the line. He also broke up a pass and picked off another. For his efforts he was voted a freshman all-American and an honorable mention PAC 12.

Step forward a year and Wright finds himself in a different situation – the most experienced player among the Wildcats linebackers. He’s also moving inside to take over Fischer’s old job, where his 6’1, 230-pound frame should stand him in good stead, as will his athleticism and relentless motor. He’s a good fit for Wildcats 3-3-5 defense, a Rodriguez recruit, and there’s no doubt he will make plenty of plays for Arizona. The big concern is mental, as he will be expected to provide leadership for an inexperienced front seven. So far the signs have been encouraging.

Braxton Miller: “I Want To Be Known As a Champion”
Braxton Miller: “I Want To Be Known As a Champion”