Noah Fifita delivered a standout performance as he threw for 197 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Arizona Wildcats to a surprising 23-10 victory over No. 10 Utah on Saturday night. Arizona’s defense was relentless, stopping the Utes on four fourth-down attempts and forcing two interceptions while racking up eight pass breakups and seven tackles for loss.
The Wildcats (3-1, 1-0 Big 12) capitalized on Utah’s struggles, particularly in the absence of quarterback Cam Rising, who remained sidelined with a hand injury. Once again, freshman Isaac Wilson started in his place but struggled in the red zone, ultimately throwing two interceptions.
Fifita’s decisive plays came in the fourth quarter, where he first connected with Tetairoa McMillan for a crucial 41-yard gain on a third-and-11. He followed that up by rolling out to his right to deliver a pinpoint 35-yard touchdown pass to Keyan Burnett, pushing Arizona’s lead to 23-10 with just over eight minutes left.
The Utes (4-1, 1-1 Big 12) who looked to be the favorites in the Big 12 this year, mounted long drives that stalled inside the red zone, including several fourth downs where the Utes didn’t get any points out of it.
Despite Wilson’s success against Oklahoma State two weeks ago, the offense’s limitations became evident, particularly in critical situations. Utah’s defense held firm at times, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Arizona’s efficient offense and stout defense.
With their eyes set on the Big 12 title, Arizona’s victory solidifies their position in the conference, while the Utes, facing uncertainty with Rising’s health, will need to regroup before their next matchup against Arizona State in Week 7.
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