The Arizona State Sun Devils are set to kick off their season on September 5 against Morgan State, but the team will feature many new faces on the field. Following a challenging offseason marked by the graduation of key starters, departures to the NFL, and several players entering the transfer portal, the Sun Devils are looking to rebuild and prove themselves in the upcoming campaign.
In the previous season, Arizona State's defense showed promise, ranking 31st among 134 FBS schools in rushing defense, allowing an average of 124 yards per game. They also placed 51st in passing defense and 65th in scoring defense, giving up 24.4 points per game. However, with the loss of several key contributors, including three players who are now sidelined for the entire season due to injuries, the depth of the team is already being tested. Among those injured are tackle My'Keil Gardner, linebacker Zyrus Fiaseu, and cornerback Nigel Pringle, all of whom were expected to play significant roles this season.
As the Sun Devils prepare for their opener, attention turns to the defensive line, where position coach Diron Reynolds is entering his third year. The unit has seen substantial losses with players like Justin Wodtly and Elijah O'Neal departing. However, returners such as C.J. Fite and Clayton Smith will be crucial in anchoring the line. Notably, Fite, who was projected as a second-day NFL Draft pick, opted to return to college, bringing both experience and leadership to the team. The addition of transfers like Jalen Thompson from Michigan State and Emar'rion Winston from Baylor will also be pivotal as the team seeks to fill the gaps left by departing players.
In the linebacker corps, coach A.J. Cooper faces the challenge of replacing key losses, including Keyshaun Elliott, who was drafted by the Chicago Bears. The Sun Devils will rely on players like Martell Hughes and Isaiah Iosefa, while newcomers such as Owen Long, who led the nation in tackles last season, are expected to step in and make an immediate impact. With Fiaseu's absence, the emergence of players like Prayer Young-Blackgoat or Tristan Bacon will be crucial for maintaining a strong defensive presence.
The secondary, now under the guidance of first-year coach Demetrice Martin, has also experienced significant turnover. With the loss of players like Keith Abney and Javan Robinson, returning athletes such as Montana Warren and Adrian 'Boogie' Wilson will need to step up. The addition of transfers like Ashton Stamps from LSU and Jessiah McGrew from Florida International will bolster the unit, but the Sun Devils will need players like Rodney Bimage to take on larger roles to ensure defensive stability.
Special teams will see changes as well, with the departure of kicker Jesus Gomez. The team will look to new arrivals like Carson Smith, who had a strong season last year, to fill the void. The emphasis on special teams has increased, with the coaching staff bringing in former NFL punter Mike Scifres to assist in the development of the kicking game.
As the Arizona State Sun Devils gear up for their season opener, the focus will be on how well the new roster can gel and perform under pressure. With a blend of returning veterans and fresh talent, the team aims to establish a competitive edge in the upcoming season and prove that they can overcome the challenges posed by their roster turnover.
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