Sun Devils Showcase Depth & Improved Pass Rush in Scrimmage,Special teams Bolstered by Transfers
Tempe,AZ – August 10,2024 – Arizona state University’s football team demonstrated promising depth and significant improvements in both it’s pass rush and special teams during a 90-minute scrimmage held yesterday at Camp T. Head Coach Kenny Dillingham strategically rested key receivers J.T. Tyson and Sam mcclain, providing valuable reps for other players and fostering new connections within the offense. The scrimmage offered a first public look at the team’s progress just weeks before the season opener.
Building Depth & New Connections
Dillingham explained the decision to limit the playing time of Tyson and McClain was deliberate. “we’re trying to be safe. Even with J.T. (Tyson), it’s Day 4 on this turf. He’s a high-workload guy, so we tried to get other guys reps. J.T. and Sam already have a pretty solid bond, so we wanted to kind of force some other guys to build a bond.”
This strategy proved fruitful, particularly for Alabama transfer Jaren “Turbo” Hamilton, who capitalized on the chance with two key plays, including a 28-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Drew Leavitt.”And you saw that at the end with Turbo (Jaren Hamilton), having two nice plays. That was good for our football team because now Sam and Turbo have a little bit of a connection,” Dillingham noted.
Receiving Core: A New Level of Competition
ASU’s receiving corps appears substantially deeper than in recent years. The ability to rest established starters and still produce positive results highlights the increased competition for playing time. Hamilton’s performance is particularly encouraging,as he’s consistently impressed coaches throughout the two weeks of fall camp. Notably, Hamilton’s arrival addresses a critical need for reliable targets beyond Tyson and McClain, a weakness that hampered the Sun Devils’ offense in the past.
Pass Rush Intensifies, Defensive Line Shines
A major point of focus heading into the season was the advancement of ASU’s pass rush. While the unit had shown promise in camp, converting pressure into sacks proved challenging. The scrimmage, however, saw the defence consistently disrupt quarterbacks leavitt and Trenton Sims.
Defensive tackle Justin Wodtly emerged as a standout performer, consistently applying pressure. C.J.Fite also made several impactful stops, including one at the goal line, while Adrian “Boogie” Wilson contributed with an early interception of Leavitt.
Dillingham emphasized the team’s aggressive philosophy: “We want to be a team that attacks. We want to attack teams. We don’t want to be dictated to. That’s something we believe in, and the older of a group we get, the more we can do.” This aggressive approach represents a shift in defensive strategy, aiming to dictate the tempo of games rather than reacting to opposing offenses.
Special Teams Turnaround Underway
Addressing a significant weakness from the previous season, the Sun Devils brought in jesus Gomez (transfer from Eastern Michigan) to bolster the kicking game. Gomez demonstrated his potential by successfully converting a 27-yard field goal attempt. Coaches report he’s consistently hitting from 50 yards and beyond in practice.Carston Kieffer also connected on a 25-yard field goal. Gomez’s consistent performance provides a level of reliability the Sun Devils haven’t seen at the kicker position in years.
Freshman contributions & Future Outlook
The scrimmage also showcased the potential of ASU’s incoming freshman class. Wide receiver Harry Hassmann and tight end A.J. Ia both made positive contributions, with Ia scoring the game’s first touchdown on a 27-yard pass from Sims. The early impact of thes freshmen suggests a shining future for the program and a quicker-than-expected integration of young talent.
Looking Ahead:
The Sun Devils will continue fall camp, focusing on refining thier offensive and defensive schemes and solidifying their special teams units. the scrimmage provided valuable insights into the team’s depth and potential, but the true test will come when they face their first opponent of the season. The team’s next scrimmage is scheduled for August 17th, offering another opportunity to evaluate their progress.
