What's Happening?
The Arizona State Sun Devils football team is preparing to conclude their 2025 season with a game against the Duke Blue Devils in the Sun Bowl. The team faces significant roster challenges, with approximately 35 players from their 105-man roster not participating. This is due to a combination of injuries, NFL draft preparations, and players entering the transfer portal. Key players such as cornerback Keith Abney II and wide receiver Jordyn Tyson will be absent as they prepare for the NFL draft. Additionally, linebacker Keyshaun Elliott and several others are opting out for various reasons. Despite these challenges, some players, including junior defensive tackle C.J. Fite, have committed to playing in the bowl game and returning for the next
season. The game is scheduled for 12 P.M. MST on Wednesday and will be broadcast on CBS.
Why It's Important?
The absence of a significant portion of the Arizona State roster highlights the growing trend of college athletes prioritizing professional prospects and transfer opportunities over bowl game participation. This situation underscores the impact of the transfer portal and NFL draft on college football, as players increasingly make career-focused decisions. For Arizona State, the game against Duke presents an opportunity for less experienced players to gain valuable playing time and showcase their potential for the 2026 season. The outcome of the game could influence recruiting and team dynamics moving forward, as the coaching staff evaluates the depth and resilience of their roster under challenging circumstances.
What's Next?
Following the Sun Bowl, Arizona State will need to address the roster gaps created by player departures. The transfer portal, which opens on January 2, will be a critical tool for the coaching staff to rebuild and strengthen the team. Additionally, the performance of younger players in the bowl game could impact their roles in the upcoming season. The coaching staff will likely focus on recruiting efforts to fill key positions and ensure a competitive team for the 2026 season. The decisions made in the coming months will shape the future trajectory of the Arizona State football program.
