{
  "id": 7027150,
  "title": "Grading Arizona football’s performance in loss to BYU",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/13/grading-arizona-footballs-performance-in-loss-to-byu",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-13T00:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/grading-arizona-football-performance-loss-003000480.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Arizona's football team faced a challenging 28-17 loss to BYU in their season opener. The offense started strong, with an impressive 12-play, 72-yard drive leading to a touchdown, but struggled in the second half, finishing with 327 total yards. Quarterback Leroy Palu completed 23 of 31 passes for 230 yards, including a touchdown and an interception. Running back Noah Fifita had 38 yards on 11 carries. The defense allowed a three-and-out on the first drive and fell behind after BYU scored two quick possessions. Late in the game, Arizona's defense had success with a sack, but ultimately failed to keep up with BYU's powerful offense, which gained 365 total yards. The special teams got a B grade, with Michael Salgado-Medina's 37-yard field goal and Caleb Smith's 34-yard kickoff return. Coaching received a C grade, as the offense was initially on point, but faltered without committed targets after an injury. Some questionable play calls in the second half also contributed to the loss.",
  "summary": "In the first big test of the season, Arizona traveled to BYU and kept in touch with the Cougars but ultimately fell 28-17 in a hard fought battle. In the first half, the Wildcats looked like they were up to the task but a second half shutout killed any confidence from the first 30 minutes. […]",
  "key_points": [
    "Arizona football lost 28-17 to BYU in season opener.",
    "Quarterback Leroy Palu completed 23 of 31 passes for 230 yards.",
    "Defense struggled, allowing BYU 365 total yards."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The loss to BYU reveals Arizona football's inconsistency, as a strong offense in the first half gave way to struggles in the second, highlighting challenges for the team to overcome.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}