Fotu is a 6-2, 274, Junior defensive lineman from Laney College, Oakland, CA. A JC transfer, Fotu may be the new Wildcat who will have the biggest immediate impact. Fotu was Scout's #25 JC prospect for this class and brings size and experience to a position where the Wildcats need both. He enrolled in school last January and with a semester to learn the system and work out with his new team mates Fotu should be a big part of the defensive line rotation this year.
Here's Steven Rodriguez's at Arizona Desert Swarm case for Fotu's immediate impact:
Here is Fotu's position coach's assessment:During the past year, the absence of size and speed on the defensive line were evident. But both issues were compensated for with the addition of Fotu. The lack of depth along the defensive line will provide ample opportunity to prove himself and earn a starting position. An exciting asset of Fotu is his versatility to play DE/DT. This will only intrigue Rich Rod and Defensive Coordinator Jeff Casteel to create mismatches; positioning Fotu and company to produce plays. At 6'4'' and 285 lbs., Fotu has size to play at the collegiate level, yet adding additional mass will contribute to his play-making abilities, helping the struggling rush defense. His explosiveness off the ball and capability to hand fight will not only create havoc for opposing QBs and offenses, but will free up fellow playmaker, Scooby Wright III. The scarce amount of play makers on defense, as well as the depth on defensive line will give Anthony Fotu an opportunity to showcase himself and earn a starting spot.
“Anthony is a big kid. He’s experienced and looks like a guy that will come in and help us right away. Naturally, he needs to get stronger but he moves well. He does everything very aggressive and he should be able to help us almost immediately. That’s what my plan is from the outside.” – UA Coach Bill Kirelawich
42 is the Arizona record for the most consecutive games catching a pass. The record is held by both Dennis Northcutt (Oregon St 1996 - ASSu 1999) and Bobby Wade (Stanford 1999 - ASSu 2002). During his streak Wade did miss one game due to injury.
42 is also the iconic number of Jack Roosevelt Robinson. Before he changed baseball and the country, Jackie played a little football at Ucla. In 1939 Jackie led the nation with 12 yards per carry and 20 yards per punt return. He also is the only player in Ucla history to letter in 4 sports (baseball was the sport where he was the least successful). Here is video of Jackie Robinson playing against USC in 1939.
