3 things to watch

1

Get a fast start: Arizona State’s offense has been slow to kick in at times this season. WSU’s offense has been explosive out of the gate, scoring a touchdown on its first drive four of five times. An early lead is imperative to keep the homecoming crowd in the game. Plus, ASU’s defense has been lights out in the second half.

2

The new starters: For the first time this season, injuries have hit the Cougars hard. Three defensive starters are out, including second- and fourth-leading tacklers Alfonso Jackson and Kendrick Dunn. If defensive end Lance Broadus can pressure the QB like last season (7.5 sacks), if Andy Mattingly plays like he did last week (nine tackles) and if Christian Bass and Xavier Hicks keep plays in front, the losses won’t hurt.

3

Third down: The Cougars are last among the 119 teams in the Bowl Subdivision statistics in third-down defense, yielding a first down 59.4 percent of the time. The Sun Devils are more than capable of taking advantage, converting 44.7 percent of their third-down attempts. WSU’s defense needs to make some big plays and get off the field for the Cougars to have a chance.