Arizona’s Caleb Smith named Big 12 Freshman of the Week

Smith is the second Wildcat to receive a Big 12 weekly award this season, along with quarterback Noah Fifita, who was named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week last week.

Oklahoma State quarterback Drew Mestemaker and Utah running back Wayshawn Parker were the Big 12 Offensive Players of the Week. Oklahoma State linebacker Ethan Wesloski and Texas Tech linebacker Austin Romaine, who had back-to-back pick-sixes, were named Big 12 Defensive Players of the Week. OSU kicker Sam Keltner and Baylor punter Palmer Williams were the Big Special Teams Players of the Week.

Smith had a 35-yard punt return in the third quarter, along with a 38-yard go-ahead touchdown immediately after diving for a 41-yard catch. Smith had four catches for 86 yards and a touchdown on five targets. Smith has the second-best punt return average in the Big 12, averaging 27.5 yards per return.

“It’s been fun to see Jet start to emerge as a playmaker for us,” said Arizona head coach Brent Brennan. “He’s a young player. The transition from high school to college is a big jump and I think (wide receivers coach Bobby Wade) has done a nice job of getting him going, being patient and helping him learn. You got to see his talent show up, because he’s playing with confidence.”

Added Spivey: “I couldn’t be more proud of Jet. He attacks every day like a pro. I feel like that’s rare to see from a freshman. You don’t really see that. When he gets his opportunities, he makes the most of it. His head is always in the game and he had two huge catches. … He’s just talented and has a great feel for the game. The more he plays, the more reps he gets on the field. The sky’s the limit for him.”

Arizona (3-1) hosts Cincinnati (4-0) for its Big 12 home opener at Casino Del Sol Stadium Saturday night at 8 p.m. on Fox.