
Tate is a 6-2, 215 Junior quarterback. Last year he entered the season as the #2 QB and most people didn't even believe he was in the competition for #1. Prior to the Colorado game Tate had already gone to the coaches asking for a shot to lead the team. Their answer - show us more in practice. Instead, when Dawkins left the Colorado game after a late hit, Tate proved his ability to the nation on the field and became an instant college football sensation.
Entering the Colorado game in relief, Tate set the FBS record for rushing by a QB with 327 yards and more importantly a victory. He continued on to be the best player in country over the month of October. That included Tate winning 4 straight PAC 12 player of the week awards. In addition, Tate was the Walter Camp National Player of the Week (Oct. 9), Maxwell Award National Player of the Week (Oct. 9), Athlon National Offensive Player of the Week (Oct. 9), CFPA National Performer of the Week (Oct. 16), Manning Award Star of the Week (Oct. 16 and Oct. 30) and the Davey O’Brien Great 8 (Oct. 9, Oct. 16 and Oct. 30).
For the year Tate, in 11 games and 8 starts, had 1,411 yards rushing, 9.2 yards a carry (to lead the nation) and 12 TDs along with 1,591 yards passing, 8.9 yards per pass, 14 TDs, and 9 interceptions while completing 62% of his passes. Tate is the first player in school history to have 3 200-yard rushing games in a season.
Can Tate handle the hype going into this season? Can he exceed last year's performance? First, read the Sports Illustrated cover store on Tate and you'll better understand a young man and a family that have waited for this opportunity. Next, remember the advantages the new coaching staff provides Tate. We have a head coach that has handled the national spotlight, intense local media pressure and shepherded QBs thru Heisman campaigns. Also, a new OC who has simplified the passing reads and should force defenses to defend the entire field against both Tate's legs and his arm. The coaching change may be the key to Tate having one of the best seasons in Arizona history.
My favorite part of Khalil's game - his dead eye, gunslinger stare before the ball is snapped contrasted with his sheer joy and excitement after every big play. Tate loves to compete, win and Beardown!
Here is the link to the old Khalil thread covering his breakout 2017 season and build-up this past off season.
14 is the Arizona record for passes caught in a game set by Jeremy McDaniel against Cal in 1996.