TUCSON, Ariz. -- If the University of Arizona Wildcats are going to keep their coach off the hot-seat this season, they'll need to put up big numbers -- and wins.

The primetime rout of the Dennis Dixon-less ducks provided Arizona fans an infusion of excitement last year.

The Wildcats gave up 372 yards and nearly 27 points per game a year ago, while Willie Tuitama bombed away through the air, throwing a league high 28 touchdowns

With eight starters, including cornerback Antoine Cason and linebacker Spencer Larsen, gone from last year's defensive squad, Mike Stoops may need even more from big Willie this season.

In the second year of offensive coordinator Sonny Dykes, Tuitama is looking for even more than the 11 scoring connections to senior receiver Mike Thomas.

The Wildcats return 15 starters, 10 Of them on offense.