Expectations for new Arizona assistant head and RB coach Alonzo Carter

After seven seasons at San Jose State, Alonzo Carter has joined new Arizona head coach Brent Brennan in Tucson, where he serves as the running backs coach and assistant head coach. Prior to his tenure at San Jose State, Carter was the head coach at Contra Costa Community College.

Carter began his role at San Jose State in 2017 as the running backs coach and took on additional responsibilities in 2018 as the recruiting coordinator. By 2021, he was also named assistant head coach. Under his guidance, San Jose State's rushing offense, which had struggled nationally, saw significant improvement in 2023.

In 2023, San Jose State ranked 32nd nationally with an average of 184.08 rushing yards per game. Kairee Robinson was a standout performer, rushing for 1,194 yards and tying for third nationally with 18 rushing touchdowns. Arizona, needing to replace running backs Jonah Coleman, who transferred to Washington, and Michael Wiley, who completed his eligibility, sought reinforcements for 2024.

The addition of Jacory Croskey-Merritt from New Mexico has been a major boost for Arizona. Croskey-Merritt, who ranked 18th nationally in 2023 with an average of 99.17 rushing yards per game and finished with 1,190 yards and 17 touchdowns, is the most experienced running back on the 2024 Arizona roster.

Arizona also brought in Quali Conley from San Jose State and Kedrick Reescano from Mississippi as transfers. Conley played a key role in San Jose State's success last season, rushing for 842 yards and nine touchdowns, and adding 27 receptions for 269 yards. Reescano, a highly talented player who was ranked as the 149th prospect and 8th running back in the 2023 class, is one of Arizona's most promising new additions.

Carter emphasized the importance of ball security during training camp earlier this month, highlighting a key focus for his new team.