ASU Football: Wilkins, Sam doubtful, Richard, Ballage to play

Injuries have been a problem all season long for Arizona State to say the least. Ever since its season opener against Northern Arizona when linebacker Christian Sam went down with an ankle injury, the injuries have piled up. As the Sun Devils head into some of their toughest challenges of Pac-12 play, health will be imperative going forward.

The most high-profile injury is that of quarterback Manny Wilkins, who continues to not practice with the team after hurting his lower left leg in the first half against USC. Wilkins has had his left ankle taped and has not participated in practice all week.

Head coach Todd Graham has listed him as questionable to doubtful, and it looks more and more likely that it will be Brady White starting at quarterback.

“I’m really confident in Brady,” Graham said. “He’s got great character, smart guy.”

Other injuries over the past few weeks on the offense include wide receiver Tim White and running backs Demario Richard and Kalen Ballage. Richard didn’t play at all in the second half against USC, but has told the media he will be ready to go. Meanwhile, Ballage, who only had six carries against the Trojans amid injury concerns, is also expected to play as his health improves.

Redshirt freshman running back Nick Ralston has been getting occasional reps with the first team in practice. Graham said today that he expects all three to be healthy and ready to go.

White is also expected to play in full capacity. He has had some injury concerns ever since ASU’s win over UTSA, but should be able to fully produce once again.

Defensively, ASU should be at near full health, with the exception of Sam. Cornerback Maurice Chandler, who has battled injury problems throughout the season, is set to play against UCLA, according to Graham.

Considering the unit had injury and suspension problems early, the team will certainly take it as a welcome sign.

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