Here Comes the Sun Devils: Utah Heads to Tempe

[BoylenOver]

ASU opens at -4.

This series has not been kind to Utah. They're 6-17 overall; they've lost 8 in a row; and have lost 6 in a row in Tempe (last win in 1976; last time they played ASU in Tempe was 1993).

Utah has to find a way to run the ball. Maybe that means expanding the Wilson package to include more option, or more exotic looks/blocking schemes; maybe some continuity with the group that played last night will make a difference. But Utah getting Blechen back will be a boost, and BJ should also see a confidence boost after the game he called last night.

[chrisrenrut]

My dad and I are going to This game. After last week (our loss to USU, ASU looking food against Illinois) it became more of a long motorcycle trip that happened to include a stop at the game. Now, I have a little more hope that the outcome of the game might not be the lowlight of the trip. I'm hoping the return of Blechen and possibly Rowe will ignite our defense to a better performance that will give us a chance to win.

We were at the game in Tempe in '93. It was my first road trip after returning from my mission, and it was a hot, miserable blow out.

A guy on Utefans.net put together a group buy for tickets. He had 150+, so the $55 tickets went down to $30. I get the sense that there could be a few thousand Ute fans there.

[Portland Ute]

Utah has to find a way to run the ball. Maybe that means expanding the Wilson package

[Applejack]

One thing (among others) that worried me from last night's MUSSterf*&k is the seeming lack of depth of the D-line. I think the starting four are as talented as any Utah D-line ever, but the backups are not nearly as talented. Last night, the defense as a whole looked tired in the fourth quarter (likely the result of constantly being on the field). The big guys in the trenches wear down. In the Pac, we need some of the backups to start to take more snaps so that the starters can catch their breath.

[Portland Ute]

One thing (among others) that worried me from last night's MUSSterf*&k is the seeming lack of depth of the D-line. I think the starting four are as talented as any Utah D-line ever, but the backups are not nearly as talented. Last night, the defense as a whole looked tired in the fourth quarter (likely the result of constantly being on the field). The big guys in the trenches wear down. In the Pac, we need some of the backups to start to take more snaps so that the starters can catch their breath.

Explain "constantly being on the field."

[Applejack]

Explain "constantly being on the field."

The offense couldn't sustain a drive in the second half. I realize BYU wasn't exactly ripping off big chunks of clock either, but the offense only had one second half drive that lasted more than 5 plays.

[BoylenOver]

I'm almost certainly a pussy, but I'm not a fan of these 8pm kickoff times. I took yesterday off from work, but 0530 next Sunday after a Utah game that will likely end at about 2330 will suck balls.

[Portland Ute]

I'm almost certainly a pussy, but I'm not a fan of these 8pm kickoff times. I took yesterday off from work, but 0530 next Sunday after a Utah game that will likely end at about 2330 will suck balls.

I don't have your work schedule, but I agree for games that I attend.

If I am at home watching, I don't mind the 8 pm start.

However, since I have DirectTV, I'll be watching the game elsewhere.

[OrangeUte]

I'll be at the game.

[BoylenOver]

According to Mo Lee, sounds like Utah will debut their black helmets in this game.

[il Padrino Ute]

According to Mo Lee, sounds like Utah will debut their black helmets in this game.

Utah's colors are crimson and white.

[Blueintheface]

Random ASU thought of the day: Several billboards have gone up around the SL valley for ASU's Master's programs. We are officially a PAC-12 market I guess.

[chrisrenrut]

Utah's colors are crimson and white.

Curmudgeon

The temperature at kickoff will probably be at least in the 90's. Might not be the smartest time to wear black, which absorbs heat.

[Portland Ute]

Curmudgeon

The temperature at kickoff will probably be at least in the 90's. Might not be the smartest time to wear black, which absorbs heat.

The kickoff will happen after the sun has set. It will make no difference what the color of the helmets or uniforms are.

[BoylenOver]

Curmudgeon

The temperature at kickoff will probably be at least in the 90's. Might not be the smartest time to wear black, which absorbs heat.

Let's be honest, though: these guys are exerting at 100% with a protective covering that contains padding and a very durable shell. The comparative difference of colors is negligible.