Arizona Wildcats
2000 overall record: 5-6
Conference record: 3-5 (t-5th)
Returning starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 7
Kickers: 2
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Clarence Farmer* (666 yds)
Passing: Ortege Jenkins (1,647 yds)
Receiving: Bobby Wade* (626 yds)
Tackles: Lance Briggs* (113)
Sacks: Joe Tafoya (6)
Interceptions: Michael Jolivette* (5)
What's new
John Mackovic is the new leader of the Wildcats in 2001, along with six new assistant coaches. Mackovic has opened up the passing game a little bit to spark an offense that was last in the Pac-10 a year ago in both passing and total offense. There will be no real changes made to the defense, however, as Larry Mac Duff returns to the desert to preserve the double-eagle flex scheme.
Battling it out
The highest profile battle of the spring was at quarterback, where Jason Johnson separated himself from the pack. He was 10-of-14 for 141 yards and a TD in the spring game after taking a majority of snaps throughout spring practice. Cliff Watkins will likely be listed second entering the fall, at which time UA fans are hoping more competition will come from true freshman Nic Costa.
Eye catcher: WR Andrae Thurman
Last year's leading receiver, Bobby Wade, missed most of the spring, and Thurman took advantage of his absence with an impressive effort. Thurman led all receivers in the spring game with four catches for 79 yards (including a 19-yard TD) to solidify his position entering the fall.
CB Budding star: CB Michael Jolivette
His five interceptions last season were enough to earn him Freshman all-America honors, but 2001 could be the year for the country to take notice of Jolivette. He is an excellent cover corner with the talent to be one of the best in the nation at his position.
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
