ASU Football: First Look at UCLA

When UCLA takes the field at Sun Devil Stadium on Saturday night, they’ll have at least one noteworthy advantage over their hosts.

The Bruins (2-2) have played four games, while ASU (0-1) has played just one. After nearly a month-long drought, the Sun Devils are finally set for a December home opener, the latest chapter in the bizarre novel that is collegiate sports in 2020.

UCLA’s 2020 campaign has featured highs and lows. With their two wins coming against winless Cal and Arizona, it’s possible their most impressive accomplishment has been navigating a chaotic schedule and fitting in all four scheduled contests. Here’s a closer look at the Bruins.

On offense, Chip Kelly’s squad has been mightily successful on the ground. Senior running back Demetric Felton has been the feature back for an offense that has fed him consistently.

He’s racked up 537 yards on 101 attempts, finding the end zone four times in as many games. For ASU to be successful, they’ll need the interior defensive line to create problems for Felton.

Under Center

Junior QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson has played well thus far, throwing for 500 yards and 7 touchdowns.

Although Felton has been the star of the show, the junior signal caller has had his moments during the season’s first month. He’s only played in two games and his missed his last two contests due to injury, but should be back for this weekend’s ballgame.

Sophomore tight end Greg Dulcich leads the team in receiving, and will present a formidable challenge for a talented ASU linebackers group. Sophomore WR Kyle Philips has also added 193 yards and a score.

On Defense

Chip Kelly’s tenure in Westwood has been defined by defensive problems. Each of his Bruins teams have struggled in tackling and pressuring the quarterback, two things that have been improved in 2020.

The secondary has been inconsistent, led by Qwuantrezz Knight and Stephan Blaylock. Jayden Daniels should look to gash the unit downfield early and often.

Linebackers Caleb Johnson and Carl Jones have been bright spots, combining for five sacks and 33 total tackles.

Saturday’s game is scheduled for 8:30 PM, and will be televised on ESPN.