**Arizona State Sun Devils: Aiming for an Elite Defense in 2025**
The Arizona State Sun Devils are setting their sights on an elite defensive performance in the 2025 college football season. After a surprising run to the Big 12 Championship in 2024, expectations have soared, and the defense is poised to be a cornerstone of their success. ([Arizona State top-ranked Big 12 team in early college football rankings]
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### **Defensive Line: Strength in Depth**
The Sun Devils’ defensive line is a formidable force. Returning players like Tashon Smallwood, Demetrius Cherry, Mo Latu, Viliami Latu, and Edmond Boateng provide a solid foundation. Their combined experience and skill set are expected to disrupt opposing offenses consistently. The depth in this unit allows for continuous pressure on quarterbacks and a stout run defense. ([Experience, depth underscore Arizona State Sun Devils defense]
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### **Linebackers: Leadership and Versatility**
The linebacker corps is bolstered by the return of Salamo Fiso, Laiu Moeakiola, and Antonio Longino, alongside experienced players like D.J. Calhoun and Christian Sam. This depth creates a competitive environment, ensuring that only the most effective players take the field. Their ability to cover ground and make plays will be crucial in stopping both the run and the pass. ([Experience, depth underscore Arizona State Sun Devils defense]
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### **Secondary: Experience and Playmaking Ability**
The secondary is led by seasoned players such as Xavion Alford and Myles Rowser. Their experience is complemented by the addition of talented newcomers, including four-star recruit Javan Robinson. This blend of experience and youth provides a dynamic and adaptable secondary capable of shutting down aerial attacks. ([Scouting the Arizona State Sun Devils – Rivals.com: Rivals Football & Basketball Recruiting]
### **Recruiting Success: Securing Top Talent**
Arizona State has made significant strides in recruiting, securing commitments from top defensive prospects like five-star defensive end Jalen McCallister and top-ranked linebacker Elijah Sims. These additions are expected to elevate the defense to new heights, bringing in fresh talent and energy. ([Breaking News: 2 Top Ranking Best Defensive players committed to Arizona State Sun football over Alabama and Georgia more welcome… – CorrectSports]
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### **Coaching Philosophy: Emphasis on Fundamentals**
Defensive coordinator Marcus Simmons emphasizes the importance of fundamentals, discipline, and communication. By focusing on these areas, the Sun Devils aim to minimize mistakes and maximize their defensive potential. The coaching staff’s commitment to development ensures that players are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. ([2025 College Football Playoff: Are the Arizona State Sun Devils Destined to Falter Without Key Adjustments in the Following Areas? – Trending Sports]
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### **Conclusion: Aiming for the Top**
With a combination of experienced players, talented newcomers, and a strong coaching staff, the Arizona State Sun Devils are poised to showcase an elite defense in the 2025 season. Their goal is clear: to rank among the top defenses nationally and lead the team to success. The foundation is set for a season of defensive dominance.
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The Arizona State Sun Devils are gearing up to showcase their elite defense in 2025. With a talented roster and experienced coaching, they’re expecting to make a strong impression. Here are some key points about the team’s defense ¹:
– *Defensive Lineup:* The Sun Devils employ a 4-3 or 4-2-5 defensive formation, featuring players like Prince Dorbah and Elijah O’Neal as line ends, and C.J. Fite and Zac Swanson at defensive tackle.
– *Linebacker Corps:* The team has a solid lineup of linebackers, including Keyshaun Elliott, Martell Hughes, and Jordan Crook, who will play crucial roles in stopping opponents’ offenses.
– *Secondary:* The defensive backfield features talented players like Keith Abney II, Javan Robinson, and Xavion Alford, who will work together to shut down opponents’ passing attacks.
Notable Players to Watch
– *Cam Skattebo:* Although a running back, Skattebo’s versatility and skills make him worth mentioning. He’s known for his bruising running style, vision, and ability to contribute in the passing game. Skattebo has drawn attention from NFL scouts and could be a key player for the Sun Devils ².
– *Michael Tollefson:* The newly committed quarterback, Tollefson brings athleticism and leadership skills to the team. He has a strong relationship with Coach Kenny Dillingham and is expected to make a significant impact ³.
Expectations for the 2025 Season
The Sun Devils’ defense is poised to be a top-10 unit, with a strong roster and experienced coaching guiding the team. With talented players and a solid defensive strategy, they’ll aim to shut down opponents’ offenses and make a deep run in the season.
The Arizona State Sun Devils are entering the 2025 college football season with a renewed sense of purpose and confidence, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. After a transformative 2024 campaign that saw significant improvements, the Sun Devils are setting their sights on a top-10 national ranking for their defense. With a blend of experienced returners and impactful newcomers, ASU’s defense is poised to be a formidable force in the Big 12 and beyond.
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## Defensive Line: Anchoring the Front Seven
The Sun Devils’ defensive line is a cornerstone of their defensive strategy. Veterans like Clayton Smith and Prince Dorbah provide leadership and experience, while younger talents such as Elijah O’Neal and C.J. Fite offer dynamic playmaking abilities. This blend of experience and youth creates a balanced and aggressive front that can disrupt opposing offenses. ([ASU football expected to return most of 2-deep from 2024]
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## Linebackers: The Heartbeat of the Defense
Linebacker is perhaps the most dynamic position group on the team. Keyshaun Elliott and Zyrus Fiaseu bring a wealth of experience and playmaking ability, while Caleb McCullough emerged as a standout in 2024, earning accolades for his performance. The depth in this unit allows for versatile schemes and the ability to adapt to various offensive strategies. ([Arizona State Football: 2024 Sun Devils Season Preview and Prediction – Athlon Sports]
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## Secondary: A Cohesive and Talented Unit
The secondary is expected to be a strength for the Sun Devils in 2025. With returners like Xavion Alford and Chris Edmonds, along with promising newcomers, ASU boasts a group capable of both locking down receivers and creating turnovers. The depth and talent in the secondary provide defensive coordinator Brian Ward with the flexibility to employ complex coverage schemes and blitz packages. ([Arizona State Football: 2024 Sun Devils Season Preview and Prediction – Athlon Sports] [Spring preview: Defense – ASUDevils: Arizona State Sun Devils Football & Basketball Recruiting]
[ASU football expected to return most of 2-deep from 2024]
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## Coaching and Scheme: Building on Success
Under the guidance of head coach Kenny Dillingham and defensive coordinator Brian Ward, the Sun Devils have developed a defensive identity characterized by aggression, discipline, and adaptability. The coaching staff has emphasized the importance of depth and competition, ensuring that every player is prepared to contribute at a high level. ([Inside ASU Sun Devil football’s clutch linebacker room]
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## Goals and Expectations: Aiming for the Top
With the foundation in place, the Sun Devils are setting ambitious goals for the 2025 season. The defense’s primary objective is to rank among the top 10 nationally, a testament to their confidence and the strides they’ve made in recent years. Achieving this goal will require continued development, cohesion, and execution, but the talent and determination within the program make it an attainable target.
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## Conclusion: A Defense to Watch
The Arizona State Sun Devils’ defense in 2025 is poised to be one of the most formidable units in college football. With a mix of experienced leaders, emerging talents, and a coaching staff committed to excellence, ASU is ready to make a significant impact on the national stage. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the Sun Devils as they strive to fulfill their lofty aspirations and solidify their place among the elite defenses in the country.
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