Arizona’s defense looked different against Texas Tech, in more ways than one. Obviously, the Wildcats played way better on that side of the ball. They did it with a personnel grouping only seen for brief stretches previously.
It’s unclear whether that look was opponent-specific. But what Arizona did spoke to a general philosophy being promoted by Kevin Sumlin.
“We’re trying to get our best personnel on the field,” Sumlin said after last weekend’s eye-opening 28-14 victory over the Red Raiders.
It seems like something every coaching staff should strive to do. But it can be easier said than done, especially when the bulk of the roster consists of players you inherited.