A major reason for Arizona improving from 4-8 in 2024 to 8-3 in 2025 has been the play of the defense. Arizona is 24th nationally, allowing 20.0 points per game, 12th, permitting 8.1 in the second half and seven with opponents averaging 3.3 in the fourth quarter.
The Arizona defense has continually improved throughout the game. Per Justin Spears of the Arizona Daily Star, the Wildcats have allowed 84 points in the second half and 36 in the fourth quarter in 2025. In 2024, Arizona allowed 159 points in the second half and 87 in the fourth quarter, per Spears.