Arizona State has some things to clean up after its 24-20 loss to Mississippi State. The Sun Devils had a sloppy game with much to be desired.
1. Will the offense start fast?
The offense failed to score until the clock hit triple zeros in the first half. If the Sun Devils want to be successful in the future against better teams, they have to have an offense that fires on all cylinders at all times. They will start fast against a weaker Texas State team, but can they start fast in conference games in the future?
2. Will the defense prevent the big explosives?
The defense performed well except for a few costly plays. The Sun Devils only allowed 192 yards if you take out the three big plays that accounted for 153 yards. Still, that is a respectable performance by the defense. They need to keep those to a minimum moving forward.
3. Will Sam Leavitt have a rebound game?
Redshirt sophomore quarterback Sam Leavitt struggled last Saturday. He was throwing off his back foot and did not look like himself. Leavitt will have a get-right game this Saturday, as Texas State allows 31.5 points a game this season.
4. Will the tight ends step up?
The tight ends have a combined two catches for 24 yards this season. That is one of the most surprising things about the Sun Devil offense thus far. Redshirt senior Chamon Metayer is due to have a breakout game, and Texas State is the team to offer a different look with the offense. The tight ends have blocked well, and they might get rewarded with some targets.
5. Will the running backs continue to produce at a high level?
The running backs have averaged 177 yards on the ground this season. Texas State allows 194 yards on the ground, which sets the running backs primed for a great game this Saturday. I predict that they will be efficient, but not get the big workload that they have had this season.