ASU Football: 2016 Media Day Takeaways

After a disappointing 2015 season, Todd Graham and Arizona State are ready to turn the page and prepare for the upcoming season.

The Sun Devils are coming off their first losing season under Graham after high expectations for the team last season.

Many pegged them as Pac-12 favorites and contend for a spot in the College Football Playoff, but with injuries and inconsistent play, they fell short of that goal.

With that said, there is reason for optimism as the Sun Devils head into the 2016 season.

In an interview with Pac-12 Networks, Graham, wide receiver Tim White and defensive lineman Tashon Smallwood talked about numerous topics and below are some of my takeaways.

1. The Sun Devils will be dynamic offensively.

While ASU will have inexperience on the offensive line and at the quarterback position, the Sun Devils have talent at the skill positions.

Running backs Demario Richard and Kalen Ballage are coming off strong seasons and their productivity will be key for the Sun Devils.

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White talked about how the running game opens up the game for him as he’s given a lot of one-on-one situations, with the opposing defense primarily focused on stopping the run.

An effective running game will also take pressure off the starting quarterback and will prevent ASU from being in long second and third downs.

To go along with White, the return of wide receiver Cameron Smith will be a boost for the offense after he missed last season with an injury.

2. The quarterback competition is wide open.

Quarterbacks Bryce Perkins, Brady White and Manny Wilkins will all compete for the starting quarterback spot.

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ASU were plagued with turnovers last season, and Graham said he’s made schematic changes to reduce the turnover ratio and said the guy who can managed the offense the best will win the job.

All three quarterbacks are inexperienced with Wilkins getting limited playing time last season, and all offer a similar dual-threat playing style. It will definitely be a fascinating competition heading into the season opener vs Northern Arizona.

3. Defensive philosophy could change slightly.

With numerous injuries, especially in the secondary, ravaging the defense last season, Graham might change things up.

A regret of Graham’s last season he said was not going to a zone pressure system with the injuries leading to many freshmen and sophomores getting extended playing time, which contributed to many of ASU’s struggles.

A key for the defense, Graham said, will be putting pressure on the quarterback with four players rather than with five or six players.

ASU allowed 88 explosive plays last season, the most in the Pac-12.

With many players gaining experience last season, that will help them this season as they now know what to expect in the Pac-12.

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