Haroon hounding opposing quarterbacks

Wildcat File Photo Arizona Daily Wildcat Sophomore defensive tackle Idris Haroon (87) sets up for a play against Washington State at Arizona Stadium. Haroon has had five sacks in the past two games and increased his tackle total to 18 for the season.

In the last two games against Washington State and California, Haroon has mounted an attack on quarterbacks that has made his presence felt.

"Coach Ellerson gave me an opportunity in the beginning of the season but I wasn't taking care of business," Haroon said. "But now I started making plays and I got my confidence up. It is definitely a confidence thing."

That confidence plus a few other things in his game has led Haroon to five sacks in the past two games and increased his tackle total to 18 for the season. Seven of those tackles have gone for a loss and he has also forced two fumbles.

"I have been watching more film and meeting one-on-one with coaches between classes to get a better understanding of the opposing offense," Haroon said. "But basically I have been practicing a lot harder and that is where it all begins."

He was listed as a potential starter coming into the season after seeing playing time in nine games a year ago, but a few missed sacks early in the season and some knee problems made him see more of the bench than the playing field.

It was just recently with the injury to Mike Robertson that Haroon has seen playing time regularly at defensive end instead of defensive tackle where he began the season.

"He spent the past few weeks bouncing around, but when Robertson hurt his shoulder he got his chance to start without any health problems with his knees," defensive coordinator Rich Ellerson said. "He is now feeling good and getting a lot of reps."

Haroon injured his knee in 1996 in the latter part of the year but came back in 1997 as a redshirt freshman to make eight tackles and get a sack.

"For anyone to play young in the Pac-10 it hurts," Ellerson said. "Now after getting stronger and healthy you can see a lot of spryness in him and a lot of enthusiasm."

Haroon agrees that his enthusiasm and ability to lead on the field is what has given him a chance to make an impact this late in the season.

"I think my leadership on the field and enthusiasm are my greatest assets," Haroon said. "I can remember last game I had a sack called back because Chris McAlister was called for a holding. He was upset but I just told the defense not to worry because we can get another one, and we did."

Now, with Haroon developing into a player that coaches are not afraid to put in the game, he wants to continue to rush the quarterback and throw him to the ground.

"I didn't know what it felt like to sack the quarterback until the Northeast Louisiana game," Haroon said. "But to be able to grab him and slam him into the ground is a great feeling. It is just like an interception for a defensive back or a touchdown for a receiver. It's great to see the disappointment in his eyes."

Dan Rosen can be reached via e-mail at Dan.Rosen@wildcat.arizona.edu.