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UA looks to pull off upset in Happy Valley

There's a reason why Arizona is coming into tomorrow's game ranked higher than Penn State - versatility and depth at all positions, something Penn State lacks.

The Wildcats bring a two-headed monster behind an experienced offensive line in Keith Smith and Ortege Jenkins, a running back that needs just 14 inches of daylight to dance in the end zone, receivers that are underrated but deadly and a defense that makes opposing offenses sweat more than an afternoon practice in the 100-degree heat of Tucson.

Two is better than one, and in this case, Smith and O.J. are head and shoulders above Kevin Thompson. Isn't it kind of odd that both Arizona signal-callers have had some games that were better than some Penn State's passers had seasons?

When it comes down to the nitty-gritty, the defenses are going to make a difference. This is where the Wildcats have the advantage. No, they may not be the better defense, but if you look at the offenses, the Wildcats have the ability to exploit a good defense, while the Lions have no chance at all.

Just when you think you have running back Trung Canidate contained, he'll break a big one. When Trung gets in the end zone, he's usually 20 yards ahead of the nearest defender.

And if LaVar Arrington, Brandon Short and Courtney Brown somehow find a way to control Canidate, Smith and Jenkins can take to the air and fire bullets right over the top of the defense.

So, here is a message to all Penn State players, coaches and fans - remember the name Brad Brennan. He burned Nebraska in the Holiday Bowl last year and he'll do the same to you. The best thing about Brennan is that he's the common man's player - after the win over Arizona State last year he helped the fans pull down the goal posts. He'll be doing the same thing at Beaver Stadium.

Penn State's cornerback David Macklin will challenge UA's leading receiver Dennis Northcutt, but Brennan will be able to dazzle the Penn State crowd with his unknown and uncanny abilities.

As for the Lions offense - does anyone really think that Eric McCoo can run through a line that consists of Joe Tafoya, Keoni Fraser and Mike Robertson? If he makes it through the trenches somehow, Marcus Bell, DaShon Polk and Scooter Sprotte will be there to greet him with open arms.

The Wildcat secondary may not be the nation's best, but against Penn State's mediocre passing attack, who needs Chris McAlister? Free safety Rafell Jones would rather put a Lion on his ass than intercept the pass. One hit from 'Fell, who can knock people into the Amish Country, and Penn State's receivers will think thrice about crossing over the middle.

To sum up, the Wildcats will rip down the goal posts and run out of Beaver Stadium with a one in the win column and plenty of reasons to make travel plans to New Orleans.

Arizona 21, Penn State 13