Arizona Wildcats Defeat Oregon State, Start Pac-10 Season 1-0

Just when you think the Wildcats are done, they go and beat Oregon State and totally redeem themselves...

Arizona’s season got a shot in the arm on Saturday. Not only did they open their Pac-10 season with a win, but the Iowa Hawkeyes, who the Cats lost to last week, also beat No. 5 Penn State, bolstering the Wildcats' strength of schedule. It doesn’t seem like anybody wants to stay in the top five for more than a couple weeks.

Considering where the Wildcats were a week ago with a struggling offense and no true identity at quarterback, the season has new life.

The play of Nick Foles, or "Sunshine," as students are referring to him because of his long locks, gave credence to the quarterback change, throwing for 254 yards and three touchdowns. Things went so well for Foles on Saturday that he is now the most efficient passer in the Pac-10.

On Monday came word that cornerback Devin Ross was named Defensive Player of the Week for the Pac-10. His interception in the final minutes of the game locked up the win for the Cats and brought them home smiling.

The bye week couldn’t come at a better time for the Wildcats, as multiple players on the team are dealing with nagging injuries, including top runner Nic Grigsby, who sprained his right shoulder Saturday.

After the win, students at UA are itching for another home game. But with the bye week on the horizon and another away game next week against Washington, the next game at Arizona Stadium isn't until Oct. 17 against Stanford. Plenty of time for the Zoo to get ready.

The buzz is back, and the students are on board once again. Rest up Wildcats—we're going to need a great showing next Saturday against Washington to keep the train rolling.