Nov. 13, 2012

TUCSON, Ariz. – The Arizona football team completed practice at Kindall Field/Sancet Stadium on Tuesday evening in preparation for Saturday’s contest at Utah. Below is a brief transcript of head coach Rich Rodriguez’s comments following practice.

On the importance of the offensive line being role players:

“I think they’ve had to. Trace Biskin, Kyle Quinn and Chris Putton, three guys with experience, have all been banged up at times. A good example of that is Shane Zink, he has played every position but center and we’ve needed that. I think the way our system is that all the linemen should know all five positions, but I think the first year is the hardest to get that done.”

On whether the offensive line has been the best position group:

“I think they have been at times pretty consistent. I don’t think we have pressed the line of scrimmage as much as I would like and we’re not as strong up front, but that group probably has as much pride as any group we have and that’s a good thing because we have to have guys that have a lot of pride up front.”

On the play of Dan Buckner:

“I am really proud of him. He is what you want out of your seniors – to have their best year. He has done a good job and he has a lot of emotion and sometimes I have to get on him about that but he has come to play every game. I think he has been one of the best receivers in our league and I think he has put himself in a position to hopefully keep playing next year.”

The Wildcats will return to action on Saturday, Nov. 17 when they play at Utah. The 8:00 p.m. kickoff will be televised live on ESPNU.

For continued coverage of Arizona Wildcat football, visit ArizonaWildcats.com.