Tomorrow is a big day for Arizona collegiate athletics. ASU travels to Wisconsin, and Iowa takes on Arizona in Tucson.
Both of these games are important, but there are different things at stake.
For Arizona State, respect is the goal. Wisconsin is ranked 11th in the nation and should be able to handle the Sun Devils - but that's why they play the game. ASU must utilize their strengths by playing tough defense, controlling the ball and giving Threet room to work with his wide receivers.
A lot of errors were made against Northern Arizona, particularly by transfer wide receiver Aaron Plfugrad, but that can be forgiven with a solid, consistent performance by the offense tomorrow in Camp Randall.
Wisconsin will not overlook the Sun Devils, as they are well aware of what Michigan transfer Steven Threet is capable of. Coach Dennis Erickson must make it a point to keep the game close and give his team an opportunity to pull off the monumental upset.
Do I think ASU will win? No. But the fan in me is hopeful, and when the clock strikes 12:30 p.m. AZ time, the score will be tied and the Sun Devils will strike.
On the other hand, Arizona vs. Iowa is a marquee matchup of two teams that are respected and ranked nationally. Arizona can become a top-flight program with a win, and all the momentum on their side. It is important to remember that they have been close before, and were unable to make the final move to legitimacy on a national level: this could be the game they change all that.
But enough of the Wildcat love. We're not here for that. We are Sun Devils and wish to see a valiant effort by our ASU squad against the Badgers. Tomorrow, we will host a live gamethread, and I'd enjoy to see you all there. This could be a game to remember, or a game to forget - but either way, make the most of it.