The University of Arizona football team was established in 1899. Then known as the Arizona Varsity, they adopted the Wildcats moniker in 1914. Their home stadium seats 57,803 spectators.
The team achieved success in the 1990s under the guidance of head coach Dick Tomey and his "Desert Swarm" defense, characterized by tough and hard-nosed tactics. In 1993, the team had its first 10-win season, defeating the University of Miami Hurricanes 29-0 in the celebrated Fiesta Bowl.
In 1998, the team enjoyed a record 12-1 season and made the Holiday Bowl, going on to defeat the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Arizona ended that season as the 3rd-ranking national team.