Coach - 

#19 Arizona looks to build on what they have with a new staff coming in. But, make no mistake they are looking to skyrocket and not relapse. They have the coaches to do it, and Brent Brennan’s staff only got better from his San Jose State departure, adding former HC Dino Babers and longtime defensive assistant from Texas Duane Akina. 

The tipping point could come from other staffers though as they bring a phenomenal special teams staff together ready to make a difference in the third facet of the game. We will take a look at the Wildcat’s special teams.

Danny Gonzales enters his first season as Special Teams Coordinator and Linebackers Coach for the Wildcats in 2024, after serving as head coach at the University of New Mexico for the past four seasons. He brings extensive experience and a track record of success to the Wildcats, aiming to elevate their special teams performance. 

On his special teams staff is Cason Bicknell who is the special teams analyst, bringing a wealth of experience from his roles as special teams coordinator, offensive coordinator, and linebackers coach at various institutions. We will take a look at the detail he puts into special teams as he shared at Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic.

Season Preview Capsule

The Arizona Wildcats had a surprisingly successful season in 2023, finishing 10-3. The question is whether this is a fluke or a sign of things to come. The Wildcats have a new coach, Brent Brennan, and are joining the Big 12 conference. They have a strong returning core, including QB Noah Fifita and WR Tetairoa McMillan, and have bolstered their roster with transfers. The key to their success will be protecting the QB with an improved offensive line. Building on strong staff hires in Dino Babers and Duane Akina.

Arizona Strengths:

Offense:

• Strong Offensive Line: Ranked highly in 2023, a major improvement from the past.
• Talented Quarterback: Noah Fifita throws accurately with a low interception rate.
• Explosive Wide Receivers: Tetairoa McMillan is a potential NFL prospect, and Arizona added deep threats through transfers.
• Improved Backfield: Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Quali Conley, and Kedrick Reescano provide depth and talent at running back.
• Experienced Offensive Coordinator: Dino Babers brings offensive expertise.

Defense:

• Strong Linebacker Duo: Jacob Manu and Justin Flowe are a top linebacker pairing in the Big 12.
• Solid Secondary: Featuring veterans like Tacario Davis, Dalton Johnson, Gunner Maldonado, and Treydan Stukes.
• Talented Defensive Coordinator: Duane Akina has experience building strong defenses.
• Added Pass Rush: Transfers like Tre Smith, Chubba Maae, and Kevon Darton bolster the pass rush.
• Depth: Arizona brought in a lot of transfers to fill out the defensive line.

Clinic: Special Teams Circuits / Hand Reads

Building an excellent special teams unit should include a plan to block kicks. This is the most electric play, swinging momentum, changing field position, taking points off the board, and scoring points. Understanding the block point and how to properly block the kick is the key. Repeated practice develops a knack for it in your players, providing numerous unquantifiable advantages to the team.

Video: Punt Block Circuit: Block Truths

The blocked kick is a lethal weapon, yielding significant returns even if you don't reach the ball. Statistically, a rush-to-block mentality boosts success in the return game.

This transitional skill, when taught correctly, consistently puts the punt unit on their heels, forcing them to retreat and block the rusher. Every second counts, and field position can dictate the game's outcome. Training athletes to master these nuances enhances their comfort and effectiveness in special teams.

Video: Punt Block Return

Special teams play encompasses much of the game while introducing completely new elements not seen in a scrimmage play. Athletes who know situational tips and tricks can make a game-changing difference. This clip on “hand reads” highlights just a fraction of these aspects, clearly showing that the Wildcats look to excel in this department.

Video: Hand Reads

The Wildcats look to continue the success built by the previous staff, and strong coaching and special teams will be part of the formula.

-Coach grabowski and the CoachesClinic Team

Other Clinics from the Arizona Staff:

Dino Babers - Philosophy and Strategy

Dino Babers - Explosive Play and Drive Breakdowns

AFCA Convention Nashville | Alonzo Carter

Bobby Wade -WR Fundamentals & Drills

Save With These Bundles:

Arizona Offensive Bundle