The Athletic's C.J. Holmes joined KGUN sports director Jason Barr for this week's edition of "In the Ring."
Jason Barr:
I know a lot of people raised their eyebrows when they saw Arizona Football was going to play Alabama in 2032 and 2033. Explain to people why these games are planned out so far in advance, especially when we know that a lot can change in one year.
C.J. Holmes:
I think it comes down to money and scheduling. This will be the first time that the University of Arizona will play Alabama on the football field. It will be interesting. I think Nick Saban will be 81 years old by the time that game kicks off so I doubt he will even be on the sidelines. There will definitely be a new coach at Arizona by then.
Jason Barr:
You did a 'state of the state' for Arizona Football for The Athletic. I'm seeing a team that hasn't had players drafted and has had two losing seasons in a row. The secondary has had a lot of transfers. What are you seeing that's good?
C.J. Holmes:
There are some positives. You have a young, big-armed quarterback in Grant Gunnell coming back next year. There are high hopes for him. You have a loaded backfield even with the departure of J.J. Taylor. You have guys lake Gary Brightwell and Nathan Tilford back there.
Jason Barr:
There's a report out that says the Pac-12 is going to have a post-season conference baseball tournament. To me, it seems like a way to generate revenue.
C.J. Holmes:
It's going to be held at Scottsdale Stadium, where the San Francisco Giants train, for the first three years. It's going to be in the middle of Scottsdale, Arizona, with a lot of shopping going on. It seems like a good situation all around and it will really help the league as far as NCAA Tournament bids.
