Its been 4 games now and I have yet to see any true innovation or misdirection on offense. Nothing but line them up and run Skattebo.

The play calling tonight was abysmal. Twice he pulled out STUPID play calls on 4th and short. We were bailed out by a PI on one and then didn't get the second. Everything we do on offense is predictable and goes right into the gameplan our opponents defense is prepared for.

And WTF was the reason we went for the 2-pt conversion when you're down by 8 after scoring the 6pts?????? Who is the idiot who made that call??

Abney (#1) sucks, period. The kid is a liability on defense.
Metayer (#7) is afraid of contact and can't catch.

Then we have the lack of discipline on both sides of the ball. The lack of football IQ and the stupid penalties this team does is inexcusable. The reason these happen is because there's ZERO accountability by the coaches. Rowser (#4) should have been sat i=on the bench for a few plays after his stupidity, but that didn't happen.

This was a winnable game but we came in unprepared, uninspired and we beat ourselves. Looking at the remaining schedule the only games I see this team having a true chance to win are: KU, @Cinci and BYU. If this team can somehow get to the u4 game at 6-5 it will be a good season. If we don't go 3-0 against those 3, while losing all of the others, I don't see this season as the big step forward.

Lots of football left to be played. How will this team and staff respond?

I am here today to head to the Sunday Brunch Buffet table. For I must partake in two heaping scoops of crow and at least three slices of humble pie.

I let my battered fan syndrome consume me. I felt last years beat down would be too much to overcome. I thought even a 35% Cam Rising would inject enough energy in Utah to impose its will.

I did not think ASU could engage in a rock fight like they did a decade ago. I held fast to my belief that it was possible for this team to “learn how to win” this year, I just assumed it would be after yet another humbling at the hands of the Utes. I saw visions of a team heading to the locker room after another loss to Utah with their heads down, only to have the team leadership circle the wagons and vow to turn the corner in November.

This team’s ability to punch, and get punched, and continue to counterpunch is impeccable.

They are beginning to believe.

Mornin Mates...

Today's Topic = Mid-Season Vibe Check-Up

I don't know about you but I'm feeling those good Sun Devil vibrations these days following a big win over Utah...

Our Sun Devils are now 5-1, with a win over a ranked team in Utah, and that win total puts us over the O/U of 4.5 wins that was established in the preseason by pro betting analysts...

That mid-season record now puts us only one game away from reaching bowl eligibility, that would be a tangible accomplishment for this coaching staff and team, since they were picked dead last by the conference media before the season began...

It still won't be easy for our Sun Devils to clinch a bowl berth and a winning record, especially in the Big-12, since the second half of our season is not all that favorable, even though most of the preseason favorites have now fallen by the wayside, to one degree or another...

November will bring us road games against Oklahoma St, K- State and AU with home games against UCF (end of October) and BYU, that is still undefeated this season, after soundly beating the Cats yesterday in Provo...

Thankfully, we have another BYE week after our road game against Cincy this next Saturday...

And, Cincy does not appear to be some pushover as they are tied with us in the conference with a 2-1 record and are 4-2 overall, having just beaten UCF on the road yesterday...

Now for those programs that are not feeling any good vibes these days...

We'll start with our rivals, the Cats, who now sit at 3-3, after back to back losses to Texas Tech and BYU, so another 9-3 season seems unlikely, although their schedule moving forward isn't as daunting as ours...

Greg Hansen, in his Sunday Notebook, writes that it's pretty awful to be behind a team like ASU at this point, that is coached by young guy who seems to be a cast member of the show, Happy Days, that aired on TV decades ago...

So, although it appears that the Cats are headed back to their normal status in football, that one of their primary remaining goals should be to beat the Sun Devils at the end of the season...

Things are also not on a good vibe basis these days in places like USC, Wash and UCLA that left the PAC to join the Big-10...

The Trojans are now 1-3 in that conference, with their latest loss coming at the hands of Penn St yesterday in the Coliseum, and their cross-town rival, UCLA, is now 0-4 in that conference, while Washington is 2-2, having lost badly to Iowa yesterday on the road...

But, they will pile up "frequent flyer" miles in that conference, which I guess is a silver lining of sorts...

However, there are a lot of good vibes in Duckville as Oregon remains unbeaten having beaten Ohio St at home last night...

But, enough about those other programs as we come back our good vibe situation right now...

Will those good Sun Devil vibrations enhance higher profile recruits, especially in the Valley, to come to ASU in the future..??

Will those positive vibes help to not only wake up the "sleeping Sun Devil giant" but also to fully Activate the Valley, as well..??

And, will all those good vibes trigger NIL donations to roll in at a far quicker pace and much higher level..??

Furthermore, are "Happy Days" just around the Big-12 corner, in the not too distant future, under Dilly and his staff, since there are no Texas, Oklahoma, Oregon, etc, type teams in the Big-12...

I'm feeling those good vibrations these days but I'm still going to take each game "one game at a time" and just hope that we win enough to go bowling this season...

I don't think that we are a Top 25 team but we may get some votes in this week's AP poll which I think we do deserve...

Are you all feeling those good vibes this fine morning in the desert and are there any other teams that you may be feeling sorry for right now..??

As I'm pretty sure that no one here is feeling sorry for the Cats, Bruins, Trojans or Huskies, right..??

G'day Mates and Go Devils!!!

First-year players on both sides of the ball had significant contributions in the 27-19 win over Utah. Here's our full report:

Last year, when Arizona State faced Utah, head coach Kenny Dillingham called that program the "gold standard." The Sun Devils' victory over the Utes does not elevate them to that level, but it was an important statement win for a team striving to flip the negative narrative that has been hovering over them for the last few years.

"There was never any doubt; our guys believed the whole way. Even down 3-1, there was a genuine belief that we could come back.” Two goals within 15 seconds of each other in the last minute of regulation not only sent the game into overtime but led ASU to a dramatic shootout win over Michigan

he biggest matchup in Week 7 of the college football slate lived up to the hype as the Oregon Ducks and Ohio State Buckeyes delivered an instant classic.

The Ducks came away victorious on their home field thanks to a late field goal. The Buckeyes had just under two minutes to respond but Will Howard couldn't lead his team down the field. He scrambled to avoid the pass rush on the final play and didn't get down quickly enough to stop the clock.



Dan Lanning now has the signature win he's been looking for and Oregon now has the inside track to the College Football Playoff, whether as the Big Ten champ or an at-large.

But that's a discussion for the future. How does this result impact the college football rankings now?

Projected Top 25 after Ohio State's loss to Oregon​

1. Texas Longhorns
2. Oregon Ducks
3. Ohio State Buckeyes
4. Penn State Nittany Lions
5. Georgia Bulldogs
6. Miami Hurricanes
7. Alabama Crimson Tide
8. Ole Miss Rebels
9. Clemson Tigers
10. Tennessee Volunteers
11. Iowa State Cyclones
12. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
13. LSU Tigers
14. BYU Cougars
15. Texas A&M Aggies
16. Boise State Broncos
17. Kansas State Wildcats
18. Indiana Hoosiers
19. Missouri Tigers
20. Pittsburgh Panthers
21. Illinois Fighting Illini
22. Michigan Wolverines
23. SMU Mustangs
24. Army Black Knights
25. Arizona State Sun Devils

What changed? Well, very little.

“We’ve had very tight clubhouses the last three years. I don’t get the sense this is any different." ASU's baseball head coach Willie Bloomquist expects better results in 2025 and knows that the team's camaraderie level is conducive to success

Along with my 9-year-old daughter, I attended the open basketball practice for season-ticket holders today. It was a cool experience for fans, as they got to interact with the players and coaches, etc.

Here are some of my major takeaways from today's action. I'll go ahead and break them into two categories (general team observations and player observations).


General team observations:

1. Best crop of big men during the Hurley era?
First and foremost, I'll say this might be the best crop of big men ASU has had in the Hurley era. Big, strong, athletic and versatile. I'd imagine Quaintance and Jihad are the starters, but Phillips looks like he's made some strides since last season and should provide some quality depth off the bench. I also think Gardner's athleticism and versatility could earn him some playing time.

2. Much-improved perimeter shooting
ASU has struggled with its perimeter shooting in recent years, but I think this could be a strength for the Sun Devils in 2024-25. Essentially every perimeter player who is expected to be part of the regular rotation is a capable outside shooter. During today's action, the trio of Miller, Ali and Sanon were especially consistent from long distance.

3. More scoring punch on this year's squad
I can't imagine ASU will struggle to score like they have in recent years. They have plenty of scoring options on the perimeter, which is par for the course for most Hurley-coached teams, but the improved frontcourt should give ASU a more balanced offensive attack this season.

4. Chemistry still a work-in-progress
As expected, it appears ASU is still working out the kinks. The defensive play seems to be ahead of the offense, which is to be expected when you return only three scholarship players from last season. At times, Hurley seemed to be perturbed with the lack of team play on offense, and in his trademark fiery style, uniquely communicated that to his players. LOL. Anyhow, talent should not be an issue for ASU this season. After watching the squad today, I'd say this is one of Hurley's most talented teams on paper (along with 2018-19 squad which featured Lu Dort, Remy Martin and Zylan Cheatham). The key to this season will likely be how quickly this team can jell together.


Player observations (in no particular order):

Basheer Jihad, Forward, Senior
I was really impressed with the fluidity in which the 6'9" post player moved on the court. Great footwork for a big man. Seemed equally comfortable playing on the low block or away from the hoop. He's really effective in pick-and-roll and pick-and-pop situations. For that reason, I'd expect him to be utilized a lot in ASU's half-court offense. Solid rebounder and low-post defender as well. The Ball State transfer should factor prominently into ASU's rotation. I'd expect him to be the starting PF.

Jayden Quaintance, Forward/Center, Freshman
This kid (only 17 years) is going to be special. So big and strong for a player his age (6'9" and well-built). However, what's most impressive is his natural instincts for the game. He seems to be in the right spot on both offense and defense. He has a nose for the ball and isn't afraid to mix it up down low. However, he also seemed comfortable to step out on the perimeter and shoot his mid-range jumper. Exceptional footwork around the hoop. He's also extremely athletic and crafty, which makes him a good finisher. Tough rebounder as well. Should be the starting center.

Shawn Phillips, Center, Junior
The 7-footer was bouncy and active in today's action. He had a number of dunks in today's scrimmage, and seemed to be engaged throughout the practice session. He had good energy on both ends of the floor. Rebounded in traffic and disrupted a few shots while he was on defense. His footwork is still a work in progress, but overall he seems to have made a nice jump from last season. Likely the backup center this season.

Brandon Gardner, Forward, Redshirt Freshman
The 6-8 forward showed great energy on both ends of the floor. He's pretty athletic for a 4-man, which is the position I think he'll play if he sees extended action. Didn't seem to be featured on offense, so it's hard to gauge what kind of offensive impact he would have. However, I think his hustle, athleticism and defensive versatility (he's a switchable defender that can guard multiple positions) may allow him to get some PT.

BJ Freeman, Wing, Senior
His versatility and feel for the game are obvious. He didn't showcase his scoring prowess in today's action. (He seemed to have an off-day). However, if the numbers are any indication, the Milwaukee transfer should provide much-needed scoring for ASU this season. At 6-foot-6, I was impressed with Freeman's ball handling and ability to create his own shot. Once he figures out how to play with other high-end players, his potential is scary. I'd guess he's either a starter or one of the first players off the bench.

Amier Ali, Wing, Freshman
He was probably the biggest (pleasant) surprise in today's action. I've heard rumblings that he's had a good preseason, and despite being the least heralded freshman in this year's class, Ali looked like the real deal today. He's every bit of the 6-foot-8 that he's listed at, and is a silky smooth player on the perimeter. He creates separation very well, and with his exceptional length (for a wing), he's simply able to shoot over defenders. He plays with a quiet confidence on the court, and seems to be under control for a freshman, which is rare. He's also a versatile defender, which should help him. Might need to fill out to play in the rugged Big 12, but the talent and skill are certainly there. He's definitely a rotation player for this year's squad.

Joson Sanon, Guard, Freshman
After watching him today, I can see why some have labeled him as a NBA prospect. The 6-5 guard was impressive, especially on the offensive end of the floor, where he plays with great poise for a freshman. I was impressed with his ability to create off the bounce for both himself and his teammates. He can score at all three levels, and displayed a savvy mid-range game, which seems to be a lost art in college basketball today. He gets exceptional separation and height on his jumper, which makes him extremely difficult to defend. I'd imagine he'll be one of the featured players in ASU's offense this season. He looks like he should be a starter -- either at SF or SG.

Adam Miller, Guard, Redshirt Senior
The 6-3 guard really seemed to be a leader in today's practice. He played with so much confidence and composure, and it reminded me why he was once dubbed a top-35 player coming out of high school. On offense, he scored at all three levels and continually made the "right play" on the floor. On defense, he played with great energy and was a menace on the ball. Much like last season, I expect him to be a focal part of ASU's attack this season. In terms of his place in the rotation, I'd guess he's either starting or the first player off the bench.

Alston Mason, Guard, Senior
I was really impressed with Mason's ability to run the offense. He's an excellent ball handler with a great burst of speed, which enables him to get into the teeth of the defense. However, the 6-foot-2 guard is equally capable of shooting from beyond the arc, which makes him difficult to defend. Watching a lot of tape of him, I know he's a big-time scorer, but he seemed content to be more of a distributor today. I think he'll be a very different point guard than what ASU fans are accustomed to watching these last couple of seasons (with Frankie Collins). Not necessarily better or worse -- just different. Offensively, I don't think Mason will have any problems transferring up to the Big 12. However, on defense, his diminutive stature could be an issue in the rugged Big 12. At a minimum, it's something to keep an eye on.

Austin Nunez, Guard, Junior
The 6-foot-2 guard was solid in today's practice. He played with confidence and composure on the floor, and along with Mason and Miller, will need to be a vocal leader for the Sun Devils this season. His offensive game was solid, but his greatest impact was on defense, where he competed at a high level. His on-ball defense was exceptional. As Hurley mentioned in prior interviews, Nunez seems to have a little muscle since his freshman season, which should help him this season. If I had to guess, Nunez is likely the backup PG to Mason. However, I fully expect Nunez to be a vital cog in the rotation, and likely one of the first players off the bench.


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Who do we root for today?

I'm torn with the BY-Who/rat matchup. On one hand I love watching the rats get torn a new one and would love to see them drop to .500 in their "playoff run". On the other hand, a loss by BY-Who would rocket us into the top of the conference....especially if K-State and Iowa State somehow get knocked off today. As for the purple cats and Cyclones...I subscribe to the @Joe Healey school of rooting for your conference foes. I don't.

There was no shortage of pundits who were not terribly impressed by ASU's 4-1 record going into their matchup with Utah. That perception has now changed following the statement win over the No. 16 team in the nation. Justin LaCertosa and I break down the 27-19 victory.

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"Having a head coach come down and watch me play, that's not something that happens every day, so I really appreciated that from them." 2026 Four-Star El Paso quarterback Jake Fette discusses his decision to commit to the Sun Devils

I think it’s time to reevaluate where this team is headed for the rest of the season. This team has character, poise and attitude. The sky is the limit. This team could win 5 of the next 6 games or just 3, either way, the team will far exceed expectations. I’m going to say 9-3

Link to post game press conference

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The theme is Blackout; the uniform is not. Find out why the Devils are wearing all-maroon with black facemasks & decals! See every detail here: https://arizonastate.rivals.com/new...n-devils-to-take-on-utah-during-blackout-week

Can we all, for a moment, just appreciate the fact that we have a die hard Sun Devil fan as our head coach?!

One of us!

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Hope you enjoy these

Great take over here

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Thanks to @LoBoJangles I’m hanging out at the coors tailgate until the game. Thanks again Lobo!
If anyone else is in here shoot me a message and let’s connect!

...after being 5-1 and taking down #16 and the clear favorite to win the conference....