Idaho State Bengals (0-0) vs. Arizona State Sun Devils (0-0)
Saturday, September 5, 7:00 PM PST
Las Vegas Favorite: Arizona State -38.0

Sam’s Take (0 – 0):

This should be a pretty uneventful game, but also a valuable one for the Sun Devil offense. QB Danny Sullivan and the O-line must look sharp against a porous Idaho State defense that cannot stop the run or pass.

I am interested to see how much of Dennis Erickson’s new spread offense is on display, especially now that DE is calling all of the plays himself (with offensive coordinator Rich Olson in the press box for support). Hopefully, we will also get a look at backup QBs Brock Osweiler and Samson Szakacsy, as they both offer unique skills sets that Sullivan does not. As for the other side of the ball, I expect the ASU defense to be on autopilot for much of this game.

A slew of players are expected be out against the Bengals due to a combination of injuries and suspensions, so the Devils depth should be on full display. As a result, I do not foresee a massive blowout Saturday night, but the Devils shouldn’t have much trouble notching win number one.

Prediction: Arizona State 41 – Idaho State 10

Idaho State Player to Keep an Eye On: WR Isaiah Burel - He is one of the Bengals top playmakers and will need to play especially well Saturday.

Arizona State Player to Keep an Eye On: RB Cameron Marshall - This true freshman excites everyone surrounding the program, as he brings a dynamic blend of speed and power that was missing in 2008. I expect his name to be called more and more as the season progresses.

Dave’s Take (0 – 0):

For a team with an offensive line that will need to be cohesive and perform substantially better than last year’s unit did, facing a team like Idaho State in week one isn’t such a bad thing.

Not only could it serve as a confidence boost (even against a lousy opponent, a good performance is something to build on) but it will also give Coach Dennis Erickson a chance to get a look at these guys as well as give some of his depth players some real-game experience.

Plenty of question marks on the offensive side of the football for the Sun Devils, but none will be noticeable this week. The defense should have a blast, and with plenty of time in the pocket, QB Danny Sullivan will be able to use his strong arm at his will.

Prediction: Arizona State 48 – Idaho State 10

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