Arizona’s defense intends to incorporate some new strategies or tactics along the defensive line under DC Duane Akina.

Big-bodied defensive linemen played a crucial role in Arizona’s defensive transformation from one of the nation’s worst units to one of the best within just a year.

The addition of nearly 1,000 pounds of body mass to the front line, likened to the weight of a saltwater crocodile by former head coach Jedd Fisch, significantly bolstered Arizona’s defensive performance. The defense went from allowing over 209 rushing yards per game in 2022 to just 118.2 yards per game in 2023, ranking 27th in the nation.

Under former defensive coordinator Johnny Nansen, Arizona’s total defense improved dramatically, rising from 125th to 50th in the country. Points per game allowed decreased from 36.5 to 21.1 between the 2022 and 2023 seasons. This defensive resurgence was highlighted by a standout performance in the Alamo Bowl against Oklahoma, where Arizona recorded six takeaways.

Despite the coaching change under head coach Brent Brennan, the defensive scheme remains unchanged with the 4-2-5 formation. New defensive coordinator Duane Akina, previously an assistant defensive backs coach at Arizona, has maintained the defensive system, which has been a staple of Arizona’s defensive strategy, with Akina having periodic coaching stints at the university since his initial tenure under Dick Tomey beginning in 1987.

Arizona’s defensive line suffered significant losses in depth and experience, with the departure of eight key players from the rotation. This included defensive tackles Tyler Manoa, Tiaoalii Savea, Sio Nofoagatoto’a, and Jacob Kongaika, along with edge rushers Taylor Upshaw, Orin Patu, Isaiah Ward, and Russell Davis II, who transferred to Washington.

The depth and flexibility of the defensive line rotation, featuring interior linemen adept at occupying blockers, were crucial in allowing stars like All-Pac-12 linebacker Jacob Manu, safety Dalton Johnson, and nickel back Treydan Stukes to make impactful plays.

Bill Norton, a 6-6, 325-pound nose tackle from Memphis, is the only returning starter on Arizona’s defensive line. Despite the significant departures, defensive coordinator Duane Akina remains optimistic about the unit’s prospects for the upcoming spring season.

Arizona’s defensive line is undergoing a transformation, with a focus on utilizing the transfer portal to bolster the unit. However, several players, including Chubba Ma’ae, Isaiah Johnson, and Keanu Mailoto, have emerged as pleasant surprises for the team, impressing defensive coordinator Duane Akina. Additionally, a mix of returning players and transfers, such as Tre Smith and Kevon Darton, are being integrated into the lineup.

While the defensive front aims to be more aggressive, the leadership on defense lies in the linebackers and defensive backs, including Jacob Manu, Dalton Johnson, Treydan Stukes, Gunner Maldonado, and Tacario Davis. Akina emphasizes the importance of linebackers and defensive backs in the team’s defensive identity, aiming for a more aggressive approach and consistency in the secondary.

Duane Akina, known for his role in developing Arizona’s secondary, has been instrumental in the growth of players like Gunner Maldonado, Dalton Johnson, and Treydan Stukes. Stukes, in particular, possesses versatility, capable of excelling in various defensive packages and positions within the secondary. Akina’s coaching philosophy emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of defensive principles, with players learning every position on the field to enhance their football IQ.

With the majority of Arizona’s improved secondary returning, they are viewed as leaders of the defense, complementing the front six. To bolster the defense further, the Wildcats hired linebackers coach Danny Gonzales, renowned for his expertise in blitzing schemes. The competition for the “Mike” linebacker position alongside Jacob Manu remains intense, with several linebackers, including Kamuela Ka’aihue, Taye Brown, Leviticus Su’a, and Justin Flowe, vying for starting roles.

Ka’aihue highlights the competitive yet supportive atmosphere among Arizona’s linebackers, emphasizing how they push each other to improve daily. The team’s defensive philosophy, emphasizing swarming to the ball, remains consistent, instilled by Akina since his first tenure at UA.

Akina praises Tacario Davis for his innate qualities, expressing confidence in his potential to become a dominant player. Arizona maintains its practice schedule for the week, with all sessions open to the public. Additionally, two former Wildcats, Scooby Wright and Lorenzo Burns, are playing in the United Football League for the Birmingham Stallions, continuing their football careers after college.