Pac-12 Football - 2021 Arizona State Sun Devils Preview
Our Arizona State Sun Devils preview 2021 observes that the last time this team had a losing record and did not play in a bowl game was 2016. Since then, they have gone 24-19. Over the past three years, Herm Edwards has been at the helm. Edwards sees 20 starters return. This season looks to be the one when the Sun Devils puts up or shut up. This year is the year when Arizona State is supposed to win the South Division and take down the conference title. But how likely is that after a COVID-shortened season where they were 2-2 and finished a weak fourth?
Arizona State Offense
Last season, the Arizona State offense topped the Pac-12 in points per game (40.2 PG), rushing yards (264.2 PG) and total yards (458.4 PG). However, they ranked 11th in passing yards, averaging just 194.2 PG. That stat put them at 100th in the nation. It starts with sophomore quarterback Jayden Daniels. Last season, the athletic and dynamic signal caller underperformed, as he completed just 58.3 percent of his passes, tossing five TDs and one pick. He did average 6.8 YPC on the ground, scoring four more times. What Daniels lacks is consistency and technique, which would be helpful in carrying him and the team through a full season. The receiving group, like Daniels, is young. However, veteran Utah transfer Bryan Thompson brings a load of experience and skill. Still, the Sun Devils need another wideout to step up and contribute in a big way.
The good news is that the rush attack is still the best in the Pac-12. Junior Rachaad White returns as does freshman Chip Trayanum. In 2020, White averaged 10 YPA while scoring five TDs. He also averaged 18.9 yards per reception, catching one scoring pass. Trayanum, who topped the team with 49 carries, scored four times while averaging 5.9 YPA. Most of the frontline returns. It includes two potential All-Pac-12 players, tackle Kellen Diesch and center Dohnovan West.
Arizona State Sun Devils Preview 2021 - Defense
Although the yardage stats for ASU defense were not stellar, one D stat was, points per game. The defense allowed teams just 23.2 PPG, which ranked first in the Pac-12 and 32nd in the country. They also led the conference and nation in takeaways per game at +2. This side of the ball includes six All-Pac-12 contenders. Upfront, DT Jermayne Lole and DE Tyler Johnson are premium. Last season, Lole recorded 24 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 3.5 TFL, and two PBU. Johnson was good for 16 tackles, five sacks, 2.5 TFL, and one QBH.
The LB unit includes fourth-year starters Merlin Robertson and Darien Butler. Both are avid run-stoppers. Corner Chase Lucas and safety Evan Fields, both seniors, are top-notch defenders. Last season, Lucas broke up five passes while Fields led the team in tackles with 38.
Specialists
Our Arizona State Sun Devils preview 2021 notes that punter Michael Turk, a first-team All-Pac-12 pick last season, returns after averaging a hefty 47.2 YPP and placing six of his 14 kicks within the 20. At this point, Jack Luckhurst will handle to placekicking chores. Last season, he was 9-of-9 on extra points and went 1-1 on field goals with his hit being a 49-yarder. D.J. Taylor, who last season as a true freshman earned second-team all-conference honors, is a dangerous punt returned. In 2020, he averaged 34.9 YPR with his longest being a 100-yard touchdown run.
Arizona State Sun Devils Preview 2021 - Projection
Here’s the skinny on the Sun Devils. They certainly possess first-place potential. Plus, Arizona State’s schedule is perhaps the kindest of any in the Pac-12. However, our Arizona State Sun Devils preview 2021 notes that they play USC on November 6 and then Washington on the following week. Utah is on their schedule in October. These games will be their proving grounds.
Pac-12 Football - Arizona State Sun Devils 2021 - Predictions:
Second Place - Pac-12 South
Las Vegas Bowl vs Indiana