Arizona State football (4-1, 2-0 Big 12) is entering its first of two bye weeks on the season. As the Sun Devils have no opponent this week, we will focus on what they need to do to be successful for the rest of the year.
1. Can the Sun Devils continue executing well?
Arizona State is executing at an excellent level for the vast majority of the team. The defense looks good, especially the defensive line, which won Big 12 defensive line of the week. Offensively, redshirt sophomore Sam Leavitt has improved throughout the season nicely.
2. Can the third-down offense improve?
The third-down conversion rate is 30.8%, down from last year’s 45.9%. That number was dragged down in the non-conference games, as the Sun Devils converted at a 22.2% rate. However, that number has jumped up in conference games.
3. Can the red zone offense be efficient?
Throughout the last two games, the redzone offense has looked iffy with the Sun Devils failing to score touchdowns. The run game has looked inefficient in the red zone in particular.
4. How will the return of wide receiver Jalen Moss help the offense?
Redshirt junior Jalen Moss was at practice again after suffering an injury against NAU, and an illness derailed his chances of returning earlier. His return could help the red zone and third-down offense. He is also another target for Leavitt and could change personnel groups from less of 12 personnel to more of three wide receiver sets
5. Can special teams improve?
Aside from Jesus Gomez, special teams leave a lot to be desired. Arizona State ranks 14th in the Big 12 in average yards per kickoff return. Moss returning kicks could help that. Punting and kickoffs both rank 15th in the conference in net yards. Sophomore punter Kanyon Floyd has dealt with injury, and when he returns, those numbers could improve.