Arizona thinking revenge as Huskies come to town

From Arizona's thoughts of revenge against Washington to USC's ability to reload after injuries, everything Pac-10 is covered here.

Updated: September 28, 2006, 1:24 PM ET

By Ted Miller | Special to ESPN.com

Arizona coach Mike Stoops appears to have drawn a line in the sand with Washington coming to town. First, he believes his team should be highly motivated to seek revenge for an embarrassing 38-14 defeat at home to the Huskies a year ago, a loss that killed the momentum built up by consecutive Pac-10 victories. Last spring, he called it his most embarrassing moment as the Wildcats coach. Second, he knows that closing out September with a winning record could prove critical for earning a bowl berth. "This is a big game for us. We want to stay ahead in the win-loss column," he said. "It's a big game for both teams. We both have aspirations of going places."

• Quarterback Willie Tuitama, who has suffered a concussion and a calf injury over the last three weeks, practiced Tuesday and should start. Stoops has gone out of his way to defend Tuitama, who thus far has fallen short of high expectations that emerged after an impressive debut as a true freshman. He is the lowest-rated quarterback in the conference. "Willie is not the problem," Stoops said. What is? A young offensive line that has given up 10 sacks and has struggled to consistently open up lanes for the running game.

• Receiver Syndric Steptoe, who leads Arizona with 17 receptions, has missed practice with a thigh bruise but should play against the Huskies. Defensive tackle Yaniv Barnett (elbow) is doubtful, while free safety Brandon Tatum (ankle) is questionable.

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