ASU Football: Washington State Players to Watch

The Washington State Cougars have had a strong showing in 2015; in comparison to recent seasons. Head coach Mike Leach has helped transform what's been considered one of the most offensive-oriented groups in the country into a more balanced overall unit.

Still, as always is expected with this program, Wazzu still can and will air the ball out as often as they can. With that said, get familiar with their talented signal caller, along with the rest of their key players ahead of Saturday's bout.

Luke Falk, QB -- No. 4 (Sophomore, RS)

Falk has looked very comfortable in Wazzu's Air Raid scheme despite his inexperience. The 6-foot-4, 205-pound sophomore has completed 70 percent of his passes this year for 3,239 yards and 28 touchdowns against just six interceptions.

He also leads the conference in passing yards per game with 404.9 -- nearly 100 yards more than the next highest average. The Sun Devils will need to keep the passing game in check if they hope to win on Saturday.

Gabe Marks, WR -- No. 9 (Junior, RS)

Marks is the conference in receptions (63) and receiving touchdowns (11). He is also second in the Pac-12 in receiving yards (800). As Falk's most reliable target, the Sun Devils will need to have eyes on him at all times on the field.

River Cracraft, WR -- No. 21 (Junior)

Cracraft is considered to be one of the most talented wideouts in the Pac-12. His 45 receptions are good for fifth in the conference, and also has 532 receiving yards, including four touchdowns.

The junior is nearing a personal milestone, as he is currently just 83 yards away from reaching 2,000 for his career. Will Saturday mark the day which he surpasses the total?

Kache Palacio, LB -- No. 40 (Senior)

The senior linebacker is tied for tenth in the Pac-12 having registered four sacks on the year and 12th in tackles for loss with seven. The Sun Devils offensive line will need to keep him from wreaking havoc in the backfield.

Peyton Pelluer, LB -- No. 47 (Sophomore)

Pelluer has emerged as being one of the conference's most talented underclassmen performers in 2015. Entering Week 10, he has 67 total tackles (42 solo) which is good for sixth-most in the Pac-12.

Pelluer has also been disruptive by stopping plays behind the line of scrimmage, racking up seven such stops so far along with two forced fumbles.