The defense, with the exception of the front four, is deep and potentially dominating. Heap is the best pass-catching tight end in the country. ASU prepped in the spring for life without him, but are left with virtually no experience. The defensive line will be loaded with new faces. Tailbacks are inexperienced.
Fans appear to be growing increasingly restless with the program.
Snyder and staff need a strong effort, and that means no New Mexico State-like losses. That might be tough to deliver without any experience at quarterback. And without much in the way of a veteran tailback after the loss of senior Delvon Flowers, who suffered a season-ending knee injury during camp on Aug. 16. Snyder said at Pac-10 Media Day on Aug. 3 that he was unsure when, or if, Kealy would return. All-America first team.