Arizona Football

Takeaways: Newcomers shine in Day 4 of Arizona fall practice

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Ismail Mahdi breezes past multiple Kansas State defenders towards the end zone (Mike Christy/Arizona Athletics).

The Arizona Wildcats concluded their fourth day of fall practice Monday, and much like the unforgiving Tucson heat, the energy was dialed all the way up.

It was a chippy practice as players on both sides of the ball could be seen jawing at one another.

Ultimately, the spirit of camaraderie prevailed and both groups were sharpened.

As Arizona gears up for its first game of the season, it received some huge news that will bolster the roster with tremendous veteran leadership and overall talent. From big defensive plays to some offensive woes, it was an exciting day at Cole and Jeannie Davis Sports Complex and Dick Tomey Field.

With that, here are some takeaways from today’s practice.

Ismail Mahdi and Max Harris Return to Arizona After Court Ruling

Arizona’s roster was elevated after a federal ruling allowed players to be eligible for up to five years of competition, allowing running back Ismail Mahdi and linebacker Max Harris to play one more season for Arizona. Mahdi transferred from Texas State following the 2024 season and was a productive runner for the Wildcats in 2025, totaling a team-best 859 yards and four touchdowns while earning All-Big 12 Honorable Mention status. Harris, also a Texas State transfer, was third on the team in tackles with 78.

Mahdi was seen Monday without pads on, practicing solo drills with new running backs coach Lyle Moevao.

Offense Struggled

The Arizona offense is mostly electric and has shown to be on pace for another highly productive season. Monday was an outlier, as penalties, missed throws, and dropped balls were common. Senior quarterback Noah Fifita threw a perfect ball to wide receiver Tre Spivey in the corner of the end zone, but it was dropped as well. Despite the rough start, the offense ended the day with some impressive plays.

Backup Quarterbacks Getting Valuable Reps

Sawyer Anderson took most of the snaps and he made the most of it. Towards the end of the 11-on-11 session, he threw a perfect ball to former Pusch Ridge standout Tyler Mustain for a touchdown, with both of Mustain’s feet narrowly staying in bounds. Luke Haugo also had a productive day, making safe throws and tossing the ball away when the play was broken. Anderson also showed that he is talented with his legs, rolling out of the pocket and extending plays

Antwan Roberts a Physical Runner

The Wildcats’ running back room is loaded this year with plenty of returners, making for a position room to keep an eye on through practice and the season. Antwan Roberts, a newcomer out of Marshall, showed that he can be part of the committee and make valuable contributions. In back-to-back runs up the middle, Roberts lowered his shoulder and gained positive yards, showing the physicality he possesses. Roberts joined the Wildcats after a productive season with the Thundering Herd, amassing 512 yards on 90 carries with four touchdowns. With a loaded running back room and Mahdi being thrown back into the mix, it will be interesting to see how he can contribute to the group.

Defensive Line Will Be a Problem

It is no secret that the addition of former Arizona standout Joe Saleve’a as the defensive line coach/associate head coach was huge for the Wildcats and his mark is clearly being felt by the staff and his group. This practice, multiple defensive linemen made big plays in the backfield and made their presence known. Prince Williams, a freshman three-star recruit out of Las Vegas, was all over the field and managed to get a sack during 11-on-11 sessions. With the depth on the line, it should be a fun group to watch for when the season begins. Other notable freshmen Keytrin Harris, Kaisi Lafitaga and Kevin Moorer have also made waves early during fall camp.

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