ASU Sun Devil Football Spring Preview

© Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

Amidst the scorching heat of the Valley, a new chapter unfolds for Arizona State football. With entry into the Big 12 looming, Coach Kenny Dillingham stands at the helm, poised to resurrect the Sun Devils after a tumultuous 3-9 campaign in 2023. As the team gears up for a fresh start, new faces grace the roster, while familiar foes return to challenge on home turf. From thrilling clashes in Stillwater to the welcome return of BYU, and the arrival of Defensive Line coach Diron Reynolds, anticipation surges as the Sun Devils prepare to redefine their legacy on the gridiron.

Most Valuable Offensive ASU Sun Devil

Senior RB Cam Skattebo #4

In the dynamic realm of Arizona State’s football offense, senior running back Cam Skattebo shines as a beacon of consistency. Standing at 5 feet 10 inches and weighing 225 pounds, Skattebo’s journey from Sacramento State to Tempe has been marked by his unwavering performance. With the potential to become ASU’s offensive linchpin, his low center of gravity, relentless intensity, and lightning-quick cuts leave defenders grasping at the air. Skattebo’s explosiveness not only evades tackles but also inflicts a punishing toll on would-be tacklers. His adaptability offers the Sun Devils a versatile weapon, providing them with ample options to navigate the challenge of the gridiron.

Welcome to the Valley

Defensive Line Coach Diron Reynolds

Stepping into the defensive line coaching role at Arizona State, Diron Reynolds brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. With recent stints at Michigan State and Stanford, Reynolds is no stranger to the West Coast football scene. However, his coaching journey extends far beyond college football, boasting over a decade of NFL coaching experience with the Colts, Dolphins, and Vikings. Under the mentorship of Leslie Frazier, Reynolds hones his skills, helping mold All-Pro talents like Jared Allen and Dwight Freeney. Notably, Reynolds played a pivotal role in the Vikings’ league-leading sack tally of 2011, amassing an impressive 50 sacks for the season. With Reynolds at the helm, the Sun Devils’ defensive line looks poised for a formidable resurgence.

© Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Incoming Transfers

The Sun Devils are facing substantial transfer portal developments, with key players like tight end Jalin Conyers and co-sack leader B.J. Green opting to transfer. Additionally, defensive backs Ro Torrence, Demetries Ford, and Chris Edmonds, along with defensive tackle Dashaun Mallory and offensive lineman Joey Ramos, are transitioning to the professional level. However, ASU has bolstered its roster with notable additions, including former five-star recruit running back Raleek Brown from USC. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the players ASU has acquired thus far.

DL Jacob Kongaika (Arizona)

TE Markeston Douglas (Florida State)

TE Cameron Harpole (San Diego State)

DB Javan Robinson (Washington State)

DL Justin Wodtly (Cincinnati)

CB Laterrance Welch (LSU)

LB Jordan Crook (Arkansas)

DL J.P. Deeter (Purdue)

QB Sam Leavitt (Michigan State)

DB Kamari Wilson (Florida)

RB/WR Raleek Brown (USC)

LB Zyrus Fiasea (San Diego State)

OL Joey Su’a (Arkansas)

OL Shancco Matautia (New Mexico)

LB Keyshaun Elliott (New Mexico State)

DB Cole Martin (Oregon)

OT Joshua Atkins (Hawaii)

K Parker Lewis (Ohio State)

S Myles “Ghost” Rowser (New Mexico State)

DL Jeff Clark (Louisville)

DE Roman Pitre (Purdue)

With the portal opening up once again on April 15, keep watch for more players to find their way into the Valley.

2024 Schedule in the Big 12

Arizona State's debut in the Big 12 for the 2024 football season will see them hosting matchups against BYU, Utah, Kansas, and UCF at home while hitting the road to face Arizona, Texas Tech, Oklahoma State, Kansas State, and Cincinnati.

Forks Up in the Valley

This time around, Dillingham has the opportunity to ensure his plate is filled with all the essential food groups and portions he desires as ASU seeks to surpass last season’s 3-9 record. With ASU’s incoming transfers and freshmen eager to contribute, they aspire to be the vital components needed to satisfy Sun Devils fans’ appetite for quality football in Year 2.