ASU Football Week 2 Highlights: Passing In The ‘Left Lane’
Last night’s game against the University of Illinois was a different story. Arizona State leveraged its two-quarterback rotation, which featured an array of passing plays, to down the Fighting Illini 45-14. The Sun Devils’ sophomore starting quarterback, Taylor Kelly, completed 18 of 24 for 249 yards and a touchdown. Redshirt freshman Michael Eubank completed 5 of 5 for 69 yards and two touchdowns.
Apparently this is what ASU coach Todd Graham had in mind when he urged his team to “put the hammer down.” The Sun Devils passed Illinois in the left lane and never looked back!
A few observations from the Arizona State-Illinois match-up:
ASU sprung Chris Coyle on the Illini: Junior H-back Chris Coyle stole the show for the Sun Devils on Saturday night. Coyle was an overlooked figure in the Dennis Erickson program, but in 2012, he has emerged as a key offensive weapon. Coyle caught 10 passes for 131 yards and two touchdowns in only his second start, easily surpassing his total 2011 stats. For many fans, he conjures up images of former ASU star tight end and NFL all-pro Todd Heap.
Michael Eubank chewed up yardage: The redshirt freshman continued to yield a majority of the snaps to starting quarterback Taylor Kelly, who had another solid outing. However, Eubank made the most of his time on the field. He was effective on rushing plays — no surprise there — but also displayed a nice passing touch. Expect ASU offensive coordinator Mike Norvell to find new ways to utilize this pair of talented QBs.
Carlos Mendoza’s injury is a troubling development: Arizona State entered the season lacking depth at various positions, particularly on defensive. The apparent loss of standout freshman linebacker Carlos Mendoza to a shoulder injury is a troubling development for the team. Before leaving the game, Mendoza intercepted two passes in relief of starting senior linebacker Brandon Magee (who sat out this week due to a concussion). Mendoza’s return to action will be a critical factor for ASU in the weeks ahead.
Cameron Marshall hasn’t shaken his fumbling problem: Marshall was rugged between the tackles, running for 52 years and a touchdown. But he also coughed up the ball at the Illini one yard line on Arizona State’s opening drive. Marshall has been guilty of fumbling in other recent games. He must improve his ball handling skills, or risk spending time in Coach Graham’s dog house.