Arizona Overcomes Slow Start, Beats Washington State

Arizona overcame a slow start to earn a quality win over Washington State on Saturday 34-24. 

Noah Fifita tacked on to his record-setting career with a four touchdown performance and Tre Spivey helped fuel the Wildcats in the first half for 129 yards and two touchdowns. Freshman Caleb Smith also stepped up with four receptions for 86 yards. 

Wazzu came out swinging with an early touchdown and a pick-six for former Arizona State safety Jack Bal. 

First half penalties helped extend Wazzu drives, specifically right before halftime, and the Cougars held a 17-14 lead going into the break. But Arizona was able to score 17 unanswered points to help put their former conference foe away. 

Special teams had its ups and downs on Saturday for Arizona. Michael Salgado-Medina went 2/4 on field goals, with one of them being blocked. But he also hit a 51-yard field goal to give Arizona a two-score lead late in the 4th quarter. Arizona also blocked its own field goal when Tre Smith was able to knock down a try by the Cougars. 

Arizona now jumps back into Big 12 play and will host Cincinnati this upcoming Saturday.