The big news from Arizona State football practice on Tuesday was ‘five or six’ players getting suspended for the season opener against Idaho State, coach Dennis Erickson told reporters afterwards.
Other items are in the notebook, but here are a few that did not get in:
- Oft-injured wide receiver Brandon Smith was on hand after having surgery for a torn ACL on Friday. He is a senior but can apply for a medical hardship, which would give him an extra year of eligibility if granted.
- Linebacker Vontaze Burfict was not at practice. ASU is still awaiting word on whether he will be deemed academically eligible this season, but if he misses tomorrow as well, it seems highly unlikely that he would play on Saturday if the ruling comes in late in the week.
- Ryan Torain, who played for the Broncos last season but was recently cut, was also at practice.
- I think freshmen are often hyped up too much because people love potential, but quarterback Brock Osweiler does look good. He has a striking resemblance to Andrew Walter on the field, although the arm strength obviously isn’t as great and the mobility is probably a bit better. Next year’s quarterback competition could be a lot of fun.
