In less than 48 hours of hearing the news of former head coach Jedd Fisch leaving Tucson for Washington with a new 7-year deal worth $54.075 million, Arizona was able to move quickly and not only target but hire its 31st head coach in program history by snagging Brent Brennan to lead the Wildcats.

Brennan is leaving San Jose State, where he went 34-48 while leading the Spartans to three bowl appearances in seven season. Out of the last four season, his former team has had three winning finishes.

"I am incredibly excited to announce Brent Brennan as the next Head Football Coach at the University of Arizona," said Arizona Vice President and Director of Athletics Dave Heeke. "Brent is an exceptional leader with a background of championship success on the field, on the recruiting trail, and as leader in the community. With strong connections to the Tucson community and an appreciation for the rich legacy of our program under legendary Head Coach Dick Tomey, Brent's vision to continue the upward trajectory of Arizona Football is rooted in the historical excellence of the program. As we begin a new era, Brent Brennan is the ideal leader for our student-athletes, staff, campus and Southern Arizona community as we write the next great chapters of Arizona Football."

Brennan has a long history out west and before getting into the coaching ranks, he was a graduate assistant at Arizona under the late-great legendary football coach Dick Tomey. He has shown he can succeed as a head coach while at San Jose State getting the Spartans to three bowl games during his tenure. Plus, he was a finalist for the UA job before the program went in the direction of Fisch.

"I am so blessed and excited to come back to the University of Arizona," Brennan said. "This incredible university is special to my family and I as it's where I started as a coach as part Coach Tomey's legacy. I can't wait to meet the players, families, fans, alumni and supporters and build on the success the players and staff have started. Bear Down and Go Cats!"

The reported contract by Pete Thamel of ESPN is a 5-year deal with the money still unknown at this point in time.

This was a clear hire for Arizona, Brennan was No. 1 on Dave Heeke's list the moment Fisch left for Washington and now the Wildcats have the head coach they wanted in place to run the program.

> DISCUSS the article with other Arizona fans as the Wildcats continue Building The Tradition

> WATCH the latest videos from GOAZCATS.com and subscribe to our YouTube channel

> FOLLOW us on Twitter (@goazcatscom, @MattRMoreno, @THutch1995, @RyanYoungRivals)

> FOLLOW us on Instagram (@goazcats)

> LIKE us on Facebook

> SUBSCRIBE for all the latest Arizona Wildcats team and recruiting news (subscribe now)