Two Arizona football players featured in CBS’ Top 100 Players of 2024

While the Arizona football team has primarily garnered attention in Southern Arizona, the rising stars of wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan and quarterback Noah Fifita are beginning to capture the interest of national pundits.

CBS Sports’ Blake Brockermeyer recently unveiled his rankings for college football’s Top 100 Players of 2024, and both McMillan and Fifita secured spots in the top 40. Brockermeyer’s assessment sheds light on the Wildcats’ growing popularity and the justified recognition of their talents among the elite in college football.

13. Tetairoa McMillan

Wide receiver | Junior

When Tetairoa McMillan switched his commitment to Arizona from Oregon, he became the highest-rated recruit in the program’s history.

Despite high expectations as a five-star prospect from Servite High School, McMillan exceeded them. In his freshman year, he played all 12 games, making 39 receptions for 702 yards and tying for the Pac-12 lead with eight touchdowns.

In 2023, playing alongside his former high school quarterback, McMillan had a breakout season, recording 90 receptions for 1,402 yards and 10 touchdowns, earning him All-Pac-12 and All-America honors.

He now ranks among Tucson’s top receivers in career statistics. With new head coach Brent Brennan, McMillan’s potential is promising, ranking second among pure receivers nationally, and he is expected to shine again in 2024 with Noah Fifita as his quarterback.

36. Noah Fifita

Quarterback | RS Sophomore

Noah Fifita’s ranking as the seventh-best quarterback by Brockermeyer underscores his status as one of college football’s elite.

Despite initially serving as Jayden de Laura’s backup in his true freshman season, Fifita’s exceptional performance after de Laura’s injury solidified his starting position.

Notably, he kept Arizona competitive against strong opponents like No. 7 Washington and No. 10 USC. Under Fifita’s leadership, Arizona went undefeated for the remainder of the season, with impressive highlights such as two games with five touchdown passes and setting a single-game passing record with 527 yards in the Territorial Cup. His remarkable efficiency as a passer, with a season completion rate of 72.4%, further solidifies his status.

Leading Arizona to its first bowl game victory in nearly a decade and matching de Laura’s passing touchdown count in fewer starts, Fifita has proven himself on the big stage and is poised for even greater success in 2024. This marks an exciting moment for Arizona football, hinting at significant accomplishments to come.