Arizona State vs. Texas A&M Preview and Prediction

Will the Sun Devil faithful be able to celebrate in Houston? Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Arizona State Sun Devils

Arizona State lost a chunk of key players (reference WR Jaelen Strong, QB Taylor Kelly, OT Jamil Douglas, DT Marcus Hardison, S Damarious Randall), but that should be masked by the 17 starters it’s returning — highlighted by WR D.J. Foster, C Nick Kelly, OG Christian Westerman, LB Vilami Moeakiola, and CB Lloyd Carrington.

Not included in that group is quarterback Mike Bercovici, who earned the full-time starting spot after impressing during his three-game stint last season.

Bercovici owns arguably the best arm in the entire Pac-12 and isn’t afraid to be aggressive with this throws; this means he could be potentially be an even bigger weapon than Taylor Kelly was a year ago despite having less talent.

While Arizona State is thin on the edge, it still claims the league’s most effective wide receiver D.J. Foster — who subbed as the Sun Devils’ running back last season.

Foster led the NCAA last year in all-purpose yards with 3,965 off of 194 carries and 62 receptions. ASU’s depth at running back should allow Foster to spend more time at wideout, giving Bercovici at least one seasoned target on the outside.

Defensively, Carrington should help contain Texas A&M’s receivers to an extent. But the Aggies are going to score points. That’s inevitable. And the quarterback play is going to be relied upon heavily to keep the Sun Devils within striking distance.

If Bercovici can be efficient while still being aggressive, this offense could prove to be too tough for a rebuilding Texas A&M defense to slow down.

Next: Home Away from Home Aggies