On October 18, 2025, Arizona State, will need to tackle one of the most difficult opponents of the season when Texas Tech, ranked as number 7, visits Tempe. The Red Raiders come in with an undefeated record (6-0) and are the top scoring offense in the Big 12 with 47.5 points per game. In the meantime, the offense of ASU is battered, and the offensive line will have to demonstrate that it can take the pressure.
In terms of match-up, the high-powered offense and pass-rush of Texas Tech will be used to highlight any of the weaknesses. Sam Leavitt (who has thrown 1,039 yards, 8 TDs this season so far, according to the box score) needs to be defended by the offensive line of ASU.
New Hardships and Chain Gangs
With a torturous 42-10 loss to Utah, Kenny Dillingham reconsidered the practice style of ASU. Focusing on brutality and live-tackling the opponent to regain grit at the front. Handling that change is a sign that ASU is aware that its line play has been exposed.
Some of the urgency stems from the fact that ASU has given up 276 yards in rushing against Utah, and against the Utes, ASU has only averaged 7 yards per carry. Any mechanical failure or failure to meet assigned tasks would prove fatal to Tech with its speed and firepower.
What Must Go Right for ASU
ASU will need to perform perfectly in the basics to emerge successful. That is clean snap exchanges, crisp protection calls at the middle, and guards and tackles able to win their one-on-one battles without regular assistance. Running backs will also be summoned to play a more prominent part in pass protection, where they will actually pick up blitzes prior to collapsing.
Receivers should remain on course in their paths to open space to shorten the time and burden on Leavitt. When all these elements come together, the Sun Devils will be able to generate an offensive rhythm and make the Red Raiders' defense unable to determine the pace.