Arizona defensive coordinator Danny Gonzales isn’t mincing words about his future-or his focus. As the Wildcats gear up for their Holiday Bowl showdown against SMU, Gonzales made it crystal clear: he’s not going anywhere.
“I’ve had plenty of opportunities,” Gonzales said. “But I’m staying put.
I’m going to be the defensive coordinator at Arizona next year, chasing a sixth conference title and a shot at the College Football Playoff. I’m excited as hell.”
That energy? It’s not just talk.
Gonzales has his eyes locked on SMU, and he knows the Mustangs aren’t rolling into this bowl game quietly. If Arizona’s going to finish the season with a win, the defense will have to earn it.
SMU’s Offense: Big, Fast, and Built to Move
“They built that thing up front,” Gonzales said, pointing to SMU’s offensive line as a major strength. “It’s probably the best-looking group we’ve seen all year.”
That line is the foundation for quarterback Kevin Jennings, who Gonzales believes brings a dynamic skill set that mirrors Arizona’s own Noah Fifita. Jennings can extend plays, escape pressure, and make things happen when a play breaks down. And when he does, he’s got weapons.
“Jordan Hudson is as elite as they come,” Gonzales said. “He and Jennings have a real connection-just like Noah and Kris Hutson.
When things go sideways, Jennings is going to find either Hudson or their tight end, RJ Maryland. That’s their go-to.”
The Defensive Game Plan: Disrupt and Confuse
If Arizona’s defense is going to slow down SMU, it starts with making Jennings uncomfortable. That’s easier said than done.
“He’s thrown 10 picks this season, so we’ve got to get him off his spot and force some mistakes,” Gonzales said. “But he doesn’t rattle easy. That’s the challenge.”
Gonzales called SMU the best offense Arizona has faced all year, and he’s not taking that lightly. The plan? Be physical, disguise coverages, and try to throw Jennings off rhythm.
“We’ve got to find ways to confuse him,” Gonzales said. “And that’s not going to be easy.”
A Special Group’s Final Ride
Beyond the X’s and O’s, Friday’s game marks the final time this Arizona team will take the field together. That’s not lost on Gonzales, who praised the unique identity of this year’s squad.
“Each team is its own thing, and this group has been really special,” he said. “Give Brent Brennan all the credit-his love for this place, his leadership, it sets the tone. He’s not a micromanager, which makes it a great environment to work in.”
The Wildcats have embraced Brennan’s culture, from their recruiting approach to the way they play. Gonzales mentioned the “redline” mantra-Arizona’s internal rallying cry-and how it’s become more than just a slogan.
“Early on, you might hear ‘redline’ and think it’s just noise,” Gonzales said. “But the kids bought in.
It’s what they believe. It’s how they play.”
Opt-Outs and Opportunity
With bowl season comes the inevitable question: who’s playing and who’s not? While some defenders may opt out, Gonzales isn’t losing sleep over it. He’s focused on the guys who will suit up-and the next man up mentality that defines this era of college football.
“Every player has to make the decision that fits their situation,” he said. “Look at Riley Wilson-he couldn’t go against Kansas State after getting dinged up late in the week.
We had a whole package built around him. Then on Friday, he’s out, and Jabari Mann steps in and plays his tail off.”
That’s the mindset Gonzales wants across the board. No regrets, just readiness.
“If a guy makes a decision based on passion and all the information, that’s the right call,” he said. “You can’t look back six months later and second-guess it. I’ll support whatever they decide-because that’s the reality of college football now.”
Bottom Line
Arizona’s defense has one more test this season, and it’s a big one. SMU brings a high-powered offense with elite talent and a quarterback who can make plays under pressure.
But Gonzales isn’t backing down. He’s locked in, motivated, and ready to lead a defense that’s looking to finish strong-and maybe set the tone for something even bigger in 2026.