Hard-Fought Battle on the Road; Cats Over UTSA 26-23

By Francisco Romero.-

After beating the University of Houston, 27-7 last week with a six-game winning streak, dating back to last year, the Roadrunners of the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) all of a sudden appeared in the college football map. 

Picture Courtesy of Arizona Athletics

Arizona’s Head Coach Rich Rodriguez already knew how good they were and were able to get out of the Alamodome with 26-23 win.

“I knew it was going to be a tough environment. They’re a good football team, a veteran football team. They are well coached and we knew we were going to take their best shot and we did. We have a few things that I’d like to see us get better at, but I didn’t see anyone lose their poise and I didn’t see anyone panic,” said Rodriguez after the game.

Arizona took an early lead, scoring in its first drive; Cayleb Jones caught a pass and went 85 yards to put Cats ahead 7-0.

Arizona took a 20-16 lead at halftime and extended its lead to 26-16.  UTSA made it interesting by scoring 7 points in the fourth quarter, trailing by 3 points 26-23. 

At the end UTSA could not capitalize on its opportunities and an interception by Arizona’s Jared Tavis with 1:20 to go in the contest sealed the Cats victory. 

On the offensive end freshmen running back Nick Wilson was outstanding.  Wilson, who replaced injured Terris Jones-Grigsby, ran for 174 yards and scored a touchdown on 30 carries.

“I wasn’t expecting it, but you have to do what you have to do. I was surprised I got the ball that many times, but whatever coach wants me to do is what I am going to do,” said Wilson after the contest.

UTSA’s quarterback Tucker Carter finished the game with 228 passing yards was intercepted once and threw one touchdown.

Arizona finished the game with 454 total yards on offense.

The Wildcats will host Nevada next week (Sept. 13).