The ASU Sun Devils take on Fresno State Bulldogs in the Las Vegas Bowl on December 15. This accomplishment has come under the new football coach - Herm Edwards, as the Sun Devils finished their 2018 regular season at 7-5, the Bulldogs ended their season 11-2.
Things to look out for in this game
There will be some changes made to the Sun Devils offense during this game. They will be playing against the Bulldogs without N'Keal Harry. Although this is a tough decision, it is definitely the best decision for him. He doesn't need to risk his chances of getting injured and messing up his chances for his first-round NFL draft status possibilities. The offensive coordinator will have to make some changes for tomorrows match up, but I am sure they have been working on these changes since their last game against Arizona on November 24. The Sun Devil's star running back Eno Benjamin will more than likely have a larger load to bare during this gam against Fresno State's defense. The Bulldogs have held their opponents to just above 122 rushing yards per game.
The Sun Devils will have to keep an eye on Fresno State's KeeSean Johnson. Marcus McMaryion loves to pass to Johnson. For sure McMaryion will target Johnson against ASU's defense. Another adjustment the Sun Devil's have to make is being without freshmen Merlin Robertson as he is tending to family matters. So, freshmen Tyler Johnson and Darien Butler will have to come together with consistently and wear our McMaryion in the backfield. It will definitely be a tough feat, but very doable.
Both Manny Wilkins and McMaryion have to focus on controlling their time during their possessions. They will have to try to control and dominate the possessions. They can not make mistakes, throw interceptions, and give away any possessions. Wilkins can not get in a position as they did with the come behind win over Arizona as they closed out their season with a victory.
The Sun Devils strength and determination will definitely be tested this weekend in the Las Vegas Bowl. Head Coach Herm Edwards has a chance to close out his first season at Arizona State with eight wins and sending a strong message. This match up between Fresno State and Arizona State is a rematch with something to prove. They have played each other three previous times, with the last time back in 1941, Arizona State has won all three of the previous matchups.
In summary
Both teams have been in the Las Vegas Bowl in the past. Fresno State last time to here was in 2013 where they lost against USC 45-20. This will be the Sun Devils second appearance with the first in 2011 that ended in a loss against Boise State 56-24. Be sure to watch.
Las Vegas Bowl Information
Date: Saturday, December 15, 2018
Time: 3:30 pm ET
TV: ABC
Live Stream: WatchESPN or ESPN app
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game photos: all photos taken by Yulanda Gilliam / PBY Media. Photos were taken during the 2018 season home games.