Scouting the key players on Arizona State

Texas must approach this matchup with a clear game plan to neutralize Arizona State’s primary weapons and force the Sun Devils out of their comfort zone. By executing effectively on both sides of the ball, the Longhorns can take control and advance.

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Cam Skattebo, RB

Rushing: 1,568 yards, 263 carries, 19 TDs

Receiving: 37 catches, 506 yards, 3 TDs

Impact: Skattebo is the engine of Arizona State’s offense, excelling as a physical runner who thrives on breaking tackles. His durability allows him to dominate as the game progresses. Additionally, his role as a receiving threat adds complexity to their attack.

Game Plan:

• Discipline Up Front: Texas’ defensive line must maintain gap integrity and execute assignment football to limit running lanes.
• Linebacker Readiness: Linebackers need to aggressively meet Skattebo at the line of scrimmage and stay alert for his involvement in the passing game.
• Gang Tackling: Multiple defenders must swarm to Skattebo to neutralize his ability to gain extra yards after contact.

Sam Leavitt, QB

Passing: 24 TDs, 5 INTs, 2,663 Yards

Rushing: 383 yards, 97 carries, 5 TDs

Impact: As a dual-threat freshman quarterback, Leavitt’s mobility complements Arizona State’s ground game, keeping defenses honest. His ability to extend plays and make quick decisions makes him a dangerous playmaker.

Game Plan:

• Edge Discipline: Maintain containment to prevent Leavitt from breaking the pocket for chunk yardage.
• Pre-Snap Deception: Use disguised coverages to force the young quarterback into mistakes.
• Consistent Pressure: Pressure Leavitt with timely blitzes to disrupt his rhythm and decision-making.

Myles Rowser, DB

Stats: 93 tackles, 1 sack, 4 pass breakups

Impact: Rowser plays a critical role as a physical enforcer, often lining up near the line of scrimmage. His versatility allows him to disrupt both the run and short passing game.

Game Plan:

• Target His Aggressiveness: Use play-action and misdirection to exploit his tendency to attack downhill.
• Account for Blitzes: Ensure protection schemes are adjusted to neutralize his edge blitzing.

Xavion Alford, DB

Stats: 82 tackles, 2 interceptions, 4 pass breakups

Impact: The former Texas player is a reliable run defender and can also impact the game in coverage. His familiarity with the Longhorns could motivate him to play with extra intensity.

Game Plan:

• Manipulate His Positioning: Use misdirection and motion to create opportunities in the running game.
• Challenge Downfield: Take advantage of Texas’ speed at receiver to test him in coverage.

Keith Abney, nickel

Stats: 3 interceptions, 7 pass breakups

Impact: Abney is a playmaker who thrives in space and excels at reading quick passing plays. He’s a strong tackler despite his size and is effective both in coverage and near the line of scrimmage.

Game Plan:

• Exploit Aggressiveness: Use crossing routes and double moves to get him out of position.
• Create Mismatches: Force him to defend bigger players, such as tight ends, in one-on-one scenarios.

Keys to the Game

Neutralize Cam Skattebo: Contain him early to force Arizona State into predictable passing situations. Limiting his production will disrupt their offensive rhythm.

Dominate the Trenches: Win the battle at the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. Stifling their rushing attack and establishing your own will put Arizona State on the back foot.

Exploit the Secondary: Arizona State relies heavily on defensive backs in run support, creating opportunities for big plays through play-action and deep passes.

Protect the Ball: Avoid turnovers to prevent Arizona State from capitalizing on mistakes and gaining momentum.

Final Outlook

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Arizona State is a gritty and well-coached team that plays hard in every phase. However, Texas’ depth, talent, and ability to dictate the game’s tempo present a significant challenge for the Sun Devils. By shutting down Skattebo and exploiting Arizona State’s aggressive secondary, Texas can seize control and advance to the next round.