The Sun Devils have exceeded expectations thus far in the 2012 season. With a blow out victory against Northern Arizona and a huge win against Illinois, the Sun Devils are getting it done at home as well as receiving some national attention. They have been slowly climbing up in the rankings and even received top 25 votes from the polls this week. Though the Sun Devils have looked impressive with these two wins, they will face a huge test this weekend against SEC newcomer Missouri. Arizona State is very well familiar with this team as they beat the Tigers 37-30 in an overtime thriller last year.
With other Pac 12 teams such as UCLA and Arizona making the jump into the Top 25, the Sun Devils are looking to do the same. But Missouri, now 1-1 on the season, is coming off a loss to #7 Georgia and will be out for blood this weekend against the Sun Devils. The Tigers are a team that runs a fast paced offense, led by dynamic playmaker James Franklin. The Illini racked up over 200 yards on the ground against ASU last Saturday, and head coach Todd Graham knows that number won’t suffice if his team wants to escape Columbia with a victory.
Another aspect to look at for the Sun Devils are turnovers. Although Arizona State has been perfect in the passing game so far this season with neither Taylor Kelly nor Michael Eubank throwing an interception, the fumbles are something Coach Graham cannot stand. To win Saturday, turnovers must be kept to a minimum, or else Missouri’s quick strike attack will make the Sun Devils pay.
Kickoff is set for 4:00 PM PT.