For the second week in a row, an Arizona Wildcat is taking home some weekly conference recognition. Following a breakout game in Pullman against Washington State, Arizona freshman wide receiver Caleb “Jet” Smith is the Big 12 Freshman of the Week.
Smith finished with four catches for 86 yards and a touchdown, the first receiving touchdown of his career. Arizona’s go-ahead drive in the third quarter was orchestrated entirely by Smith and quarterback Noah Fifita. Fifita found the freshman receiver on three consecutive plays for 82 yards, including a 38-yard touchdown reception, to give the Wildcats a 21-17 lead.
Smith also made his presence felt on special teams for second time in as many weeks. After scoring his first career touchdown on a 69-yard punt return against Northern Illinois, Smith had a 36-yard punt return that helped energize Arizona’s offense in the second half.
On the day, Smith finished with a career-high 122 all-purpose yards, helping Arizona secure a 34-24 road win over WSU.
Smith joins Noah Fifita, who earned Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week honors last week, on the list of Wildcats recognized by the league this season. “Jet” is the first Arizona player to earn Big 12 Freshman of the Week honors since the Wildcats joined the conference in 2024.