Arizona Coordinator Defends Quarterback Noah Fifita
Offensive coordinator Seth Doege says the quarterback deserves more national recognition for his play.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Football
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Arizona offensive coordinator Seth Doege argues that starting quarterback Noah Fifita is not getting the national attention he deserves. Doege suggests Fifita's stature and program affiliation have hindered his perception by scouts.
Why it matters
The comments highlight the challenges players at non-traditional power programs face in gaining national exposure. It also underscores how rigid physical metrics, such as height, can impact the professional evaluation of collegiate talent.
Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita stands 5'9" tall. This measurement is frequently cited as the primary reason he receives less attention from NFL scouts compared to taller prospects.
The players
Seth Doege
Seth Doege is the offensive coordinator for the University of Arizona football program.
Noah Fifita
Noah Fifita is the starting quarterback for the Arizona football team.
The details
Seth Doege regularly advocates for Fifita during discussions with NFL personnel to emphasize his work ethic and process-driven approach. Despite these efforts, Doege maintains that the quarterback is undervalued by the national media because he plays for Arizona.
Timeline
October 21, 2026: Article publication date.
Season Trajectory
The perception of Fifita impacts Arizona's season narrative as the program attempts to elevate its standing against traditional powerhouses. This scrutiny also affects the quarterback's draft stock and the team's ability to market its players on a national stage.
The coordinator's public defense shifts the focus toward Fifita's individual performance metrics throughout the remainder of the season. Fans and analysts should track whether this increased advocacy leads to greater media attention in future AP polls or rankings.
The takeaway
Players in smaller programs often rely on vocal support from coaching staffs to overcome scouting biases regarding physical size. Recognizing the distinction between a player's measurable stature and their on-field productivity is essential for a complete evaluation.
Further reading
For more on the current team, visit Arizona Football.
Source note: This article includes information reported by On3.
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