ASU Football: Smith, Lawal impress at Spring Game

Fifteen spring practices gave a glimpse of the changes being made around the ASU football program. Now, just 141 days remain until the first game of 2018.

Arizona State’s first spring football game under new head coach Herm Edwards offered further insight on the brand of football he wants his team to play.

A run-first offense complented by gritty defense.

Following the conclusion of spring practices, here are some of the takeaways from the spring game.

1. Offensive line will come together

The idea of using Cohl Cabral at center was discussed when Todd Graham was still coaching. Under Edwards, the possibility became a reality as the sophomore shifted over from left tackle.

Aside from snapping issues, Cabral appears to be part of the foundation in an offense that will run the ball quite a bit next season.

In the fall, transfers Casey Tucker (Stanford) and Roy Hemsley (USC) will join the mix and both are expected to be in contention to start at left tackle and left guard, respectively.

Additionally, offensive line coach Dave Christensen will have several returning players back and competing for spots including juniors Zach Robertson and Steve Miller.

Initially expected to be one of the weaker position groups, the added bulk to the offensive line should be suitable to fit the needs of the offense come the fall.

2. A new running back duo?

Edwards has reiterated time and time again that he wants to run the football.

His inaugural recruiting class features three freshmen and a JUCO transfer to go along with sophomores Eno Benjamin and Trelon Smith.

The expectation entering the new regime was for Benjamin to be the top ball carrier. However, Smith has given the coaching staff a reason to, if nothing else, consider some semblance of a two-back system.

While it’s unlikely to think that a duo of Benjamin and Smith could reciprocate the success of outgoing seniors Demario Richard and Kalen Ballage, it’s not farfetched to assume the sophomore tandem has the potential to succeed.

Smith possesses a similar running style to that of Benjamin. Both ball carriers possess a good first step and have the quickness to be elusive backs in the Pac-12.

Though a two-back system may not come to fruition, Smith’s spring performance warrants consideration.

3. Persistence and passion

Linebacker Malik Lawal recorded an interception of Wilkins on the second snap of the 11-on-11 scrimmage and saw time with the first team. After a couple of drops throughout the spring, he picked up the first takeaway of the game.

Next: ASU Football: Devils fall in Sun Bowl, move on to the next chapter

In adjusting to defensive coordinator Danny Gonzales’ 3-3-5 scheme, the overall aggressiveness and intuition of the defense has been amplified. The newfound energy is contagious, stemming from Edwards and Gonzales.