Arizona State Sun Devils
2000 overall record: 6-6
Conference record: 3-5 (t-5th)
Returning starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 8
Kickers: 2
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Tom Pace* (720 yds)
Passing: Jef Krohn* (1,751 yds)
Receiving: Richard Williams (744 yds)
Tackles: Adam Archuleta (127)
Sacks: Terrell Suggs* (10)
Interceptions: Nijrell Eason (5)
What's new
Dirk Koetter and the new staff bring a wide open offensive style that put Boise State among the national leaders in both yardage and scoring. They will show a wide variety of looks and probably pass the ball more than they will run it. Seven of the first eight plays in spring game were passes. The new defensive scheme will place a third safety in the lineup and put more pressure at the line of scrimmage.
Battling it out
Last year's leading passer, Jeff Krohn, is in a battle for his starting spot at quarterback. Matt Cooper, who played only in mop-up situations in 2000, has made great strides and caught the attention of the new staff. Redshirt freshman Andrew Walter has also looked good. There is no depth chart order for these guys, but Koetter plans on narrowing it to two guys in the first week of fall practice
Eye catcher: FS Riccardo Stewart
The redshirt freshman had played on the scout team as a receiver last year, but was undoubtedly one of the top players on the team during spring, looking like a natural defender. He made big plays in every practice and had a crushing hit in the spring game.
Budding star: DE Terrell Suggs
The 2000 Pac-10 Freshman of the Year has continued to improve and was virtually unblockable in spring drills. Keeping him out of the offensive backfield must be a priority for any ASU opponent, but that's easier said than done. Suggs is similar to former ASU pass rusher Derrick Rodgers with his combination of speed and quickness.
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
