What Have BYU and Arizona's Head Coaches Said About This Saturday's Matchup?

Talmage Morgan | Oct 9, 2024

BYU Football Helmet / BYU Photo

Ahead of Saturday's game, head coaches Kalani Sitake and Brent Brennan have expressed mutual respect for each other's programs in recent press conferences. Sitake and Brennan actually have a career history together - both were part of the Oregon State coaching staff during the 2015 season, with Sitake as the defensive coordinator and Brennan as the wide receivers coach. Coach Sitake specifically mentioned how their families became close during his time at Oregon State. The two have maintained a friendship over the years, even though their coaching careers have taken them to different programs.

Friendships aside, these teams are both gearing up for battle. Both coaches acknowledge the challenge ahead, with Arizona coming to play in a tough road environment at Lavell Edwards, and the Cougars fighting to maintain their perfect record and cement themselves as Big 12 Championship contenders.

Arizona’s Toughness and Talent

During his recent press conference, BYU Head Coach Kalani Sitake was quick to point out Arizona's recent success, specifically a huge upset win over Utah on the Utes' home turf in Salt Lake City. Sitake described Arizona as a "really good football team" with a physical and well-coached squad. He compared their physicality to that of Utah and called out the balance that Arizona brings with a strong defensive presence and playmakers on offense.

Sitake specifically pointed to the talent of Arizona’s quarterback, Noah Fifita, and the chemistry he has with standout wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan. He mentioned the importance of BYU preparing for Arizona’s balanced offense, which has proven to be a true dual-threat ground and air attack. Ball security has been an issue for BYU this season, and Sitake noted that Arizona's physicality on defense and their ability to force turnovers is a focal point of the Cougars' preparation for Saturday.

BYU's Physicality, Coaching, and Home Environment

On the other side, Arizona head coach Brent Brennan expressed equal admiration for BYU, highlighting their physicality, strong coaching, and "hostile" home environment. Watch out, Noah - BYU fans might yell encouraging comments to you throughout the game.

Brennan pointed out that BYU’s physical style of play is similar to what Arizona faced two weeks ago against Utah. He knows that BYU’s ability to maintain physical intensity over four quarters of football, especially on their home field, will be a major challenge for his team.

Both coaches are expecting a game that will be physical, disciplined, and well-coached. BYU's focus will be neutralizing Arizona’s offensive playmakers while maintaining their own intensity. For Arizona, the challenge will be handling BYU’s physicality and the electric atmosphere in Provo.