Brent Brennan says Arizona ‘showed up for each other’ in emotional Territorial Cup win originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Brent Brennan arrived knowing the magnitude of the moment. He knew what this game carried. He knew what it asked of him and his team. And when it was over, when Arizona had battered its way to a 23 to 7 win over Arizona State, he didn’t hide from the emotion of the night.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement“Bear down. What a great night,” Brennan said. “This game means more. It means more to our players and our coaches. It is more important to our university, to our fans, to our community.”
The Wildcats were far from perfect early, but they stayed connected. They embraced the grind. They trusted one another.
“We talked all week about this game turning on our physicality and our discipline,” Brennan said. “I thought that showed up tonight in fantastic ways.”
MORE:DeSean Jackson signals where he stands on head coaching opportunities
Arizona’s defense gave them time to breathe. Then it gave them the spark that changed everything.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWhen Treydan Stukes climbed above the receiver for a soaring interception, Brennan felt the weight of what he had just witnessed.
“It is one of the best football plays I have ever seen,” he said. “He is such a special kid. Walk on to scholarship. Torn ACL. Everyone was on me…asking why he was not playing. He just kept working.”
Then Brennan let the moment sit.
“That is why I have so much love for this team,” he said. “The way they continue to show up for each other play in and play out is really special.”
Arizona has now trailed at halftime in four straight games and won them all late. Brennan said that is no accident.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement“This team does not quit. This team knows it is a four quarter game.”
He smiled.
“I could not be more proud. And I think we are just getting started. Bear down, baby.”
More college football news:
College bowl eligibility tracker
Deion Sanders celebrates DeSean Jackson and Michael Vick
Deion Sanders says ‘come at me’ not the players or coaches
10 coaches who could replace Lane Kiffin at Ole Miss
