For the first time since 1986, both teams in Arizona are ranked in the Top 25. Arizona and Arizona State sit in the top 15 in college football as they compete for the Territorial Cup once again. However, there is more on the line then just state bragging rights. The winner of the team has a chance to capture the Pac 12 South crown and meet Oregon in the championship game. It is a winner-take-all match on Friday.
Both Arizona teams are tied for the South Division lead with UCLA who faces off against Stanford on Friday. If the Bruins beat the Cardinals, they clinch the South and head to the championship game. However, if they lose then either the Wildcats or Sun Devils get into the game against the Ducks.
The Wildcats have several concerns entering the game. Head coach Rich Rodriguez noted that quarterback Anu Solomon will be a game-time decision after injuring his right foot. The quarterback has been in a boot and missed the game against Utah. Not having Solomon could be a big hit to the Wildcats. The quarterback has 25 touchdowns on the year while playing more games with an ankle injury. Backup Jesse Scroggins has just 73 yards on the season and might not be enough to get a win over the Sun Devils.
If Solomon cannot play, the Wildcats will rely heavily on the run game. Nick Wilson will get a much bigger work load going forward while currently ranking fourth in the conference averaging 108.5 yards per game. Last weekend against Utah, he put up 218 yards and three touchdowns. Arizona is hoping to have his dynamic abilities while also having the quarterback play to work with.
Meanwhile the Sun Devils have their own offensive playmakers making some noise. Quarterback Taylor Kelly is hoping to extend his win streak to three against the Wildcats. He tossed four touchdowns passes against Washington State last week and it could only get better as top wide receiver Jaelen Strong returns after suffering a concussion that kept him out last week. He averages 98.2 receiving yards per game while hauling in nine touchdown catches on the season. If DJ Foster can keep the offense balanced, the team could get the win.
