Not a very interesting game, ASU simply manhandled ISU.

The defense looked great, the zone was in full force. Driving lanes were non-existent and ISU took 48% of their shots from three point land - hitting only 29% (7-24).

Saw pretty much everything I wanted to. McMillan got the most minutes he has had all season, putting up a line of 6 points, 4 assits, 2 rebounds. Glasser contributed finally, with 11 points 9 assists and only 1 turnover.

Abbott made some shots, with 14 points, 4 steals and 4-6 from three. Kuksiks hit 5 threes for 15 points and had 4 boards.

Pendergraph had a solid game, and Harden had 18.

Every starter scored at least 11 points, and the bench actually got to see some court time.

All in all, an expected, but nice blow out. Oh yeah, we also hit 17 threes at 53% shooting - a scool record.

"I've been coaching 30 years," Idaho State coach Joe O'Brien said, "and I don't know that I've been involved in a game where the opponent shot the ball that well that long. ... They shot the ball well from start to finish, everybody that played."

Next game is the 29th against Central Connecticut State University - CCSU. They're 5-5 and have a stud sophomore forward named Ken Horton who is averaging 20.6 points per... oh, who am I kidding? It should be another blow out.

Continuing the trend of 1 game a week, ASU plays an extremely close game after not playing for a week and nearly loses - frankly, it could be argued we did lose this game. But the officials took a look at BYU's game winning shot and determined it came after the buzzer - so we were saved. BYU is a really good team - they were 10-0 before this loss, and i would not be surprised to see them crack the top 25 before the end of the season.

They played us tough, lead for 75% of the game - and were even up by 10 with 8 mintutes to go.

But - it was not enough.

ASU showed once again the resiliency that has become a staple of these Sendek coached teams. The guy just breeds this atmosphere of no-quit basketball and the players have bought in. The guys might have been outplayed, but they never gave up.

Before I get to the good things, the bad.

The defense was ok, but we need to capitalize on the turnovers. They turned the ball over 16 times, and often we would rush down and waste the possession with a stupid three. I'm looking at you Ty Abbott. The not so super-soph was 2-10 FG, 2-7 3PA, had NO free throws, and ended up with 6 points, 3 rebs, 3 ast, 1 steal, 1 TO. The kid just is not producing. He played 29 mins, and really has not found a groove all seasonl. He needs to step up, because if he is going to continually play 30 mins a game, he cant do this kind of thing. He is supposed to be the third, if not second, scoring option on offense. Two thirds of his field goal attempts have been three pointers, and he is shooting 25% on threes. That is awful. Frankly, if he does not improve, i think there is reason to start Shipp or McMillan over him, just to send a message. He could still get his 20-25 mins, but he needs to shoot a higher percentage.

Another thing is the amount of minutes Derek Glasser has been getting - and the lack of production the team has been getting for those minutes. For example this game - 32 mins. 1 point. 1 assist. 3 turnovers. 3 rebounds. 1 steal. 0-1 FG, 1-4 FT.
Are you joking me? His counterpart on BYU also scored 16 points and shot 50%, so he wasn't exactly providing stellar defense. The guy shouldn't be getting these kinds of minutes - not when McMillan is behind him. ANd while McMillan has been lacking confidence and is still raw - the kid's upside is so much bigger. Look at what happens when he gets his shot to play. 18 mins, 10 points, 3 assists, 2 rebounds, 2 blocks (one at a huge moment near the end of the game) and 2 turnovers. He just is a better, more athletic player. I know Harden loves Glasser, but i think its time to give McMillan some more PT.

Kuksiks also disappeared - he has trouble creating his own shot, but he played ok and demanded a defender at all times.

The bright spots of the night came from Harden (natch) and Pendergraph. Jeff had 22 points and 9 rebounds. He shot a high percentage, avoided mistakes, and held his man to 7 points. He needs to become more aggressive offensively, our tallest guy only getting 5 FTA is not ok, but he has really mastered his midrange game.

Harden - he carried us to victory again. He was so aggressive on offense, I love it. His 21 FTAs were more than all of BYU's team (19). 30 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assits, 5 steals. The kid was ballin'. He is ASU basketball at the moment. The team lives and dies by his production. We lived tonight, even though it was close.

#17 ASU (9-1) will face the Idaho State Bengals (2-8) at home on Tuesday, December 23rd at 2 PM. Expect a blow out.

Entering into bowl season, ASU has locked up 14 total recruits - 13 prep and 1 JC transfer.

Broken down a little bit we have signed 5 defensive players, 7 offensive, and 2 athletes.

Breaking down further we have...

Two Offensive Lineman:

1 Guard - Kody Koebensky 6'4, 290, AZ, Scouts, Inc. Grade = 80, #11 OG
1 Tackle - Fred Thornton 6'4, 290, AZ, Scouts, Inc. Grade = 74, #110 OT

Analysis: Decent, but could definitely use some more depth. Wouldn't be surprised to see both these kids starting next season.

Two Tight Ends:

Chris Coyle 6'3, 235, CA, Scouts, Inc. Grade = 78, #23 TE
Max Smith 6'2, 244, AZ, Scouts, Inc. Grade = 75, #66 TE

Analysis: Two solid pickups. We already have youth at TE and these two should make the position even more interesting. Coyle looks like he could be a threat in the passing game, and both guys seem willing to block.  And while they are a little short, I bet they will find ways to be productive. Solid signings.

Two Cornerbacks:

Osahon Irabor 5'11, 182, CA, Scouts, Inc. Grade = 78, #21 CB
LeQuan Lewis 5'10, 190, CA, Scouts, Inc. Grade = N/A JC Transfer

Analysis: Irabor looks like he could turn into a total stud. Guy has 4.3 speed, great quickness, and decent size. Fluid in and out of his breaks, the kid flashed solid ball skills on the game film.  His technique needs some work - but the kid is going to be 18 to begin the season. Don't know a lot about Lewis - but depth is always needed. Both of these guys look to add to our already impressive secondary. I am getting excited about this defense for next season.

Two Linebackers:

OLB, Anthony Rose 6'1, 190, AZ, Scouts, Inc. Grade = 77, #48 OLB
OLB, Anthony Jones 6'1, 200, AZ, Scouts, Inc. Grade = 76, #69 OLB

Analysis: Would love to eventually see a 75 or better MLB added to this list, but these two guys could end up being special. Both of these kids were ranked very highly on their athleticism, football skills, and motors - but they have been knocked due to their size.  Earning over a 75 despite being a linebacker weighing 190-200 pounds is impressive. Redshirt these kids, watch them tack on 20-30 pounds, and then watch as they become stud sophomores. I like these signings, but don't expect much - if any - impact in 2009

Two Athletes:

Matt Tucker 6'3, 185, CO, Scouts, Inc. Grade = 77, #69 ATH
Shane McCullen 6'2, 193, AZ, Scouts, Inc. Grade = 73, #150 ATH

Analysis: Tucker will be interesting. Kid played in a Wildcat type offense in HS and played the QB/Athlete behind center, lined up at WR, and also played a lot of a safety/linebacker hybrid position on defense. He has big playmaking ability and some great hands - but is extremely raw at all positions. Scouts aren't really sure where he will play - but my money is on safety. McCullen - according to Scouts should play at 220 - will probably either end up as a RB or a safety. Both of these kids are raw, but have tons of speed and ability and it is always fun to recruit these types of guys because they are the true boom or bust type players - they can pan out and become studs, or just become marginal special teams guys if the football side of it never clicks with them.

1 Defensive Lineman:

DT, William Sutton 6'0, 248, CA, Scouts, Inc. Grade = 75, #66 DT

Analysis: Really want to see another DT or a DE added to this list by the end, but Sutton looks like a solid sign. My first thought was, hmm, only 248? But scouts note that he is a BIG 250, and will be able to add some bulk. A player perhaps in the Brandon Mebane mold, look forward to seeing how he does against some of the weaker running pac-10 teams in the league because I expect him to see the field in 2009. He will have a good player to team with in Guy.

2 Running Backs:

Jamal Miles 5'10, 175, AZ, Scouts, Inc. Grade = 74, #127 RB
Marcus Washington 6'1, 190, AZ, Scouts, Inc. Grade = 73, #152 RB

Analysis: Nice to see some extra depth at RB - and nice two see such different guys. These two really are exact opposites of each other. Miles has supreme speed (4.3 40) and quickness.  He lacks some durability and doesn't hit the hole very hard.  Washington is a slasher, hits the hole hard, and is a beast - will probably play at 210 or 220. He only has average speed though. Interesting guys. Doubt either will play much next year, though.

1 Quarterback:

Brock Osweiler 6'8, 230, MT, Scouts, Inc. Grade = 74, #74 QB

Analysis: When he signed and was scouted he was 6'6, now he is a legit 6'8. The kid is a beast - not mobile, solid feet and vision (hes huge), but has a lower grade because he has shown more of a touch passer's skills and hasn't unleashed many deep balls even though people believe he can. Scouts think he will end up as a basketball player - could he play both for ASU? He is ranked as the #96 basketball prospect - a top 100 ESPN player - much higher than his football ranking. Interesting,  he will see the football field next year, but maybe he will see the basketball court?

Wish List:

A top level talent (80+) at a skil position.
A WR or two.
More OL/DL.

What do you guys want to see? This class is quite deep so far with a ton of college level talent (low 70s grade out to being solid college regulars, to upper 70s who can be all conference type potential). So far so good.

EDIT: For reference, here is a look at the classes since 2006.

2006 - 25 committs (15 prep, 10 JC ) - Koetter
Prep Highlights:
DE Jermaine Williams, Grade 80 (No longer on roster, failed academically, JUCO)
S Ryan McFoy, Grade 78 (Solid role player, special teamer)
RB Rodney Glass, Grade 77 (No longer on roster, JUCO, failed academically)
ILB Travis Goethel, Grade 77 (Starting LB, 72 tackles, 8 TFL, 2 INT in 2008)
ILB Jamarr Robinson, Grade 77 (Redshirted, special teamer in 2008)
RB Dmitri Nance, Grade 74 (410 yards rushing, 3.9 average, 3 TD 2008)
ILB Gerald Munns, Grade 72 (When healthy was effective in 2008)
WR Kyle Williams, Grade 70 (364 yards receiving, 4 TD, 868 punt/kr yards)

JC Highlights:
S Troy Nolan (64 tackles, 4 INT in 2008, stud in the secondary)
RB Ryan Torain (Pimp 5th rounder for Broncos)
CB Justin Tryon (On the Redskins, 4th rounder)

2007 - 24 committs (18 prep, 6 JC) - Koetter/Erickson (He got most of the talent)
Prep Highlights:
OG Po'u Palelei, Grade 78 (Not on 2008 roster, JUCO bound failed to qualify)
C Garth Gerhart, Grade 77 (Started 2008 as Pollak's replacement - solid as RS-F)
OLB Oliver Aaron, Grade 77 (Part timer in 2008, 8 tackles, 1 TFL)
WR T.J. Simpson, Grade 76 (12 yards and 1 TD in 2008, should play more in '09)
QB Samson Szakacsy, Grade 76 (2008 3rd stringer - chance to start in '09)
DT Jonathan English, Grade 76 (Part timer in 2008, very effective. 12 T, 4 TFL)
OG Adam Tello, Grade 75 (RS-F, forced to play some in 08, he was ok)
WR Kerry Taylor, Grade 75 (405 yards receiving, 4 TD)
QB Chasen Stangel, Grade 73 (Will compete in 2009)
CB Omar Bolden, Not graded, Rivals said he was a 4 star (total stud, 49 T, 2 INT)

Notable JC:
DE Morris Wooten (Starting MLB in 2008, 72 T, 7 TFL, 2 sacks, 1 INT, very solid)
DE Luis Vasquez (Played a lot at DE, 35 T, 11 TFL, 4 sacks - he was ok)
RB Jarrell Woods (19 yards rushing in 2008)

2008 - 28 committs (1 top #150, 22 prep, 6 JC) - Ranked #15 Nationally by ESPN
Prep Highlights: (Note: Any play time they received was as a true freshman, obv.)
ATH Gerrell Robinson, Grade 81 (Converted to WR, 26 yards receiving. Big '09)
RB Ryan Bass, Grade 80 (120 yards rushing, 4.6 average. Big '09)
DE Jamaar Jarrett, Grade 80 (9 T, 2 TFL, 1 Sack - will start over Vasquez in '09)
ATH Jarrell Barbour, Grade 79 (Failed to qualify academically, JUCO bound, boo )
OG Zach Schlink, Grade 78 (Will be solid in 09)
OG Andrew Sampson, Grade 78 (Got good exp in '08, again, look for '09)
WR Kemonte Bateman, Grade 78 (Think he failed to qualify, ugh)
OT Kyle Johnson, Grade 78 (another good OL prospect)
WR A.J. Pickens, Grade 77 (Didn't see field really in 08, look for in '09)
QB Jack Elway, Grade 75 (Intriguing ;) )

I could go on and on - this class was probably the best that ASU has ever signed. Such depth, great talent at the top - there is a reason we were ranked for our recruiting class for one of the first times in recent memory.

Per ASU's media department:

ASU’s Lawrence Guy Named Freshman All-American By Sporting News

TEMPE, Ariz.--Arizona State University defensive tackle Lawrence Guy earned Freshman All-American honors from Sporting News, the magazine announced today.
 
Guy (Las Vegas, Nev.) played in all 12 games as a true freshman in 2008, starting the final eight. He collected 44 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and two sacks on the season, and he scored a touchdown on a fumble return in ASU’s 31-0 victory over Washington State on Nov. 15.
 
The 6-5, 280-pound Guy has also received First-Team Freshman All-American honors from CollegeFootballNews.com and he was Honorable Mention All-Pacific-10 Conference.

Very cool. Guy was part of an extremely young, retooled defense that shined this season for the Sun Devils.

He was the best DT we have signed in the past decade (Scouts grade 78) and showed he was worth the effort. Kid stuffed the run, had some pass rush, and forced enough double teams to allow Davis to get to the QB over 10 times.

It's always encouraging to have a kid play this well as a freshman because the trenches are where teams are built. If the kid can get up to 300 pounds or so - wow. Beast.

Nice to see some young defensive talent in maroon and gold - something we have really been without, other than Davis, since Suggs left.

A lot changes in a year. Last year our young team traveled into Lincoln, and walked away heads bowed after a 47-62 loss. Harden had 8 points, our team had 19 turnvoers, and we were completely outplayed.

A year later, this time in Tempe, we dominated on both ends of the court. We held Nebraska to 44 points - their lowest total in two years. Sendek's zone is fierce and the players are putting in a lot of energy into playing D. We held them to 29% shooting! That D is critical, and it will be key to carry over this defensive energy to some of the tougher Pac-10 teams.

Offensively, we looked solid. Harden took his time to find his groove, but his teammates picked him up. Rihards Kuksiks matched his career high with 18 points and 6 rebounds. After fighting his way onto the court halfway through last season, Kuksiks is averaging double digits in points, and is shooting 46% from deep. He looks good, and has surprised with his activeness in the paint on defense.

Abbott had probably his second best game of the season with 15 points and 8 rebounds.  He also had an amazing block, where he raced down the court on a fast break to block Steve Harley off the glass. Pimp.

Harden was a stud again, with 20 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists and continues to hit 50% of his threes. He started slow, but dominated in the second half.

I would like to see more from the bench. 5 guys played a total of 21 minutes, produced 2 points, 2 rebounds, 2 steals, and 3 turnovers. Weak.

IUPUI up next on Sunday the 14th.

Wow, what a crazy weekend full of crazy Sun Devil action. The games were wild, the food was delicious, and Tempe has finally started having some beautiful weather. Lets get to it.

ASU FOOTBALL - 34, UCLA 9... BIG WIN

ASU has a dominant (defensively oriented) win over the UCLA to get up to 5 wins, and set up a fateful showdown with Arizona for a bowl berth, which we do not really deserve, but will gladly take.

This game was bizarre. If someone tossed the game stats in your face you'd cringe and assume ASU got trounced.

Team Stat Comparison
1st Downs	18	10
3rd down efficiency	6-17	2-13
4th down efficiency	0-1	0-0
Total Yards	306	122
Passing	217	101
Comp-Att	26-44	13-26
Yards per pass	4.9	3.9
Rushing	89	21
Rushing Attempts	35	24
Yards per rush	2.5	0.9
Penalties	9-81	7-56
Turnovers	4	1
Fumbles lost	1	0
Interceptions thrown	3	1
Possession	31:26	28:34

So, we couldn't run the ball, couldn't pass the ball, held the ball for less time despite 4 turnovers, and were nearly outgained 3-1...but we win by nearly 30? How? Defense. Like I have been saying since the USC game, our defense is well coached, full of studs, and has been the strongest part of this team.  Nolan, Nixon and Goethel all had INT returns for TDs. That kind of thing is not sustainable, but it sure kicks ass. Troy Nolan's was even for 100 yards. Dexter Davis now has 10 sacks - he could get up to 12 easily by the end of the season, since bowl statistics count in college. Nolan has 4 ints, Nixon has 5. Defense looks good.

Offense - not so much. Rudy threw for 101 yards, 1 int, and had a 50% comp percentage. He looked lost out there, and really struggled. He sucks. I look forward to the future. McGaha and Jones were the only people getting open. UCLA has a good pass defense, but this was pathetic. Herring, Nance, DeWitty - none of them could run the ball against one of the worst rush defenses in the nation (96th nationally). The line sucks. At least the penalties were cut down by about 30 yards today...

Anyways. It was a good win, and it sets us up nicely for a showdown with Arizona that will be packed with storylines.

ASU Basketball 1-1

ASU 78, Baylor 87  LOSS

The first loss of the season came in depressing fashion.  The game started off nicely and looked like a win until it became clear that Baylor was going to successfully do the one thing our defense wants other teams to do - shoot threes. The zone scheme Sendek has in place is predicated on forcing the opponent into taking a bunch of long threes, since it clogs the passing lanes and the key, but Baylor just kept hitting shots. Baylor was 11-24 (~46%) from downtown, with LaceDarius Dunn hitting 6 of them off the bench for 27 points. Baylor's guards combined for 69 points and Baylor just drowned us out in the second half. Baylor played flawlessly with only 8 turnovers, and shot an incredible 57% for the game.

Frankly, I am not that upset with the loss. Baylor hit everything. They took shots we wanted them to take, and in the end, just made more. They are a quality team.  Harden was huge again with 32 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals. He just was not enough.  Abbott was garbage, going 2-10, and 1-7 from three. Harden can't do it alone. Pendergraph had another solid game with 19 points and 10 boards, but needs to be more assertive on the offensive end. He should have taken more than his 7 shots. He was 6-7 and 7-7 from the line. We just got beat, which is something I can accept.

ASU 88, UTEP 58

We responded on Sunday with a crushing defeat of UTEP. Sendek really is an amazing coach. Obviously, UTEP is not Baylor, but in one day Sendek fixed our defensive problems and the team responded in shutting down UTEP to under 30% from the field (29.6%), and from three (23.5%). Defense was amazing, but James Harden was king.

Harden dropped 40 points and set the tournament record for points in a game, and points in the tournament. 40 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assits. 6-7 from three. 6-6 from the line. Harden is simply gangster. Abbott was the only other person in double figures with 12, although he shot poorly again. He needs to find his stroke quickly if he is going to be taking 7 threes a game. He is only shooting 26% on the season. The team looked good today. Wish we could have come out of the tourney undeafeated..but oh well.

We are 5-1 and have one of the best players in the country on our team, and our football team has won 3 in a row. ASU athletics are looking good.