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To make a big jump, young Arizona Wildcats defense must master the little things

The Arizona Wildcats did not achieve the sizable gains they were seeking on defense in the season opener. With so many newcomers playing significant roles, it’s going to take a little time.

The first step toward accomplishing that big goal is to master the little things — the techniques and fundamentals that make the difference between success and failure on any given play.

The UA defense has focused on two areas in particular leading up to Saturday’s game against Houston. For edge defenders at the line of scrimmage, it’s what’s referred to in football parlance as “keeping contain.