The Arizona Wildcats start their season ranked for the first time since 2015 ands they start as massive favorites against New Mexico. Wildcats quarterback Noah Fifita was one of the best in the Pac-12 last year and is an under the radar Heisman candidate. Fifita did not start until Week 5 last season, but once he grabbed the starting job he instantly became one of the best quarterbacks in the Pac-12. As a starter Fifita completed 71.3% of his passes and threw 25 touchdowns to six interceptions. Only Bo Nix was a higher graded passer by PFF in the Pac-12 after Fifita took the job. Top wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan opted to return after a strong season in which he caught 90 passes for 1,396 yards and 10 touchdowns. The offensive line only loses one starter – albeit a massive one – in first-round draft pick Jordan Morgan. The Wildcats defense was very good last year. The Wildcats allowed just 3.6 yards per carry and 118.2 yards per contest. They return leading tackler and First Team All-Pac 12 middle linebacker Jacob Manu. Defensive back Tecario Davis was their highest-graded corner in coverage by PFF (87.5).

New Mexico profiles as one of the worst teams in the country. Their scoring defense was one of the worst in the country last year. The Lobos were 127th in opponent EPA per play, 130th in EPA per dropback and 132nd in EPA on early downs. The Lobos almost pulled off the upset last week hosting Montana State with the help of two defensive touchdowns. They won't be that lucky this week. The Wildcats defense is too strong and the Lobos can't stop Fifita and company. New Head coach Brent Brennan will want to make a statement in his first game. Arizona rolls in this one.