Texas Longhorns vs. Arizona State Sun Devils: Key Players to Watch

As the 2024 college football season heats up, one of the most exciting matchups on the horizon is between the Texas Longhorns and the Arizona State Sun Devils. Both teams come into the game with strong rosters and plenty of ambition, as they look to make a statement and secure a significant victory for their respective programs. With playoff aspirations on the line for Texas and Arizona State eager to prove themselves as a rising contender, this game promises to be a hard-fought battle.

When analyzing any matchup, it’s crucial to identify the players who will have the biggest impact on the game. Both teams feature standout individuals who could change the course of the contest, whether on offense, defense, or special teams. In this article, we’ll highlight key players to watch for both the Texas Longhorns and Arizona State Sun Devils, examining their strengths and how they could affect the outcome of the game.

Key Players to Watch for the Texas Longhorns

1. Quinn Ewers, Quarterback
Quinn Ewers is arguably the most important player on the field for the Longhorns, and his performance will directly impact Texas’ chances of success. Ewers, a former five-star recruit, has shown flashes of brilliance but has also been inconsistent at times. His ability to manage the game, make accurate throws, and lead his team will be critical against Arizona State’s defense. Ewers has the arm strength to make all the throws, but he must avoid costly mistakes and develop chemistry with his receiving corps to thrive in this matchup.

What makes Ewers dangerous is his ability to push the ball downfield. If the Sun Devils are unable to contain his deep-ball accuracy, they could be in for a long day. Ewers’ ability to read defenses and make quick decisions will be key to maintaining Texas’ offensive rhythm, especially in critical moments.

2. Bijan Robinson, Running Back
While Robinson is no longer on the team, Texas still has a potent running back group that can make a significant impact in this matchup. Running backs like Jonathon Brooks and Keilan Robinson have continued the legacy of strong ground play at Texas, with Brooks likely being the featured back in 2024. Brooks showed impressive skills last season, including vision, balance, and the ability to pick up yards after contact. His ability to establish the run game will be essential in keeping the Sun Devils’ defense on its heels and opening up play-action opportunities for Ewers.

Additionally, the Longhorns’ offensive line, led by key players like Cole Hutson and Nino Amarea, will play a critical role in creating lanes for the running backs. If Texas can dominate the line of scrimmage, it will open up space for their backs to break off big runs, helping to balance their offensive attack.

3. Xavier Worthy, Wide Receiver
Xavier Worthy is one of the most explosive playmakers in college football, and he will be a key player to watch in this game. His speed and ability to separate from defenders make him a constant deep-threat for the Longhorns. Worthy has the potential to stretch the Arizona State defense and force the Sun Devils’ secondary to play deep coverage, which could open up opportunities for other receivers and the running backs.

Worthy has developed into Ewers’ go-to target and will be a critical piece in the passing game. Whether on deep shots or intermediate routes, his ability to make plays after the catch could shift the momentum in Texas’ favor. If he can establish a rhythm with Ewers early, Texas’ offense could quickly gain confidence and put pressure on Arizona State.

4. Jaylan Ford, Linebacker
Texas’ defense will be led by Jaylan Ford, a linebacker who has emerged as one of the top defensive playmakers in the Big 12. Ford is a sideline-to-sideline player who excels in both pass coverage and stopping the run. His ability to read the quarterback and get into passing lanes will be crucial when Arizona State tries to move the ball through the air.

In addition to his pass defense, Ford is also a strong tackler who can shut down running backs in the open field. His leadership and versatility will be key for the Longhorns’ defense in neutralizing Arizona State’s offensive game plan. Expect Ford to be heavily involved in both stopping the run and creating pressure on the quarterback, possibly even forcing turnovers.

5. Jalen Catalon, Safety
Jalen Catalon, a transfer from Arkansas, is one of the most talented safeties in college football and adds another layer of strength to the Texas defense. Catalon’s ability to read the quarterback and make plays on the ball is unparalleled. His deep coverage will be tested in this game, as Arizona State will look to attack through the air. Catalon has the potential to be a game-changer with his ability to intercept passes and disrupt the passing game.

His experience in SEC play will also give Texas a significant advantage, as Catalon has faced some of the toughest offenses in the country. His leadership and ability to organize the secondary will be pivotal in ensuring that Texas’ defense doesn’t allow big plays.

Key Players to Watch for the Arizona State Sun Devils

1. Jaden Rashada, Quarterback
Jaden Rashada, a highly recruited quarterback, represents the future of Arizona State football. Rashada, who has already shown promise in his young career, will be under the spotlight as the Sun Devils’ leader. The sophomore has all the physical tools to succeed, with a strong arm, mobility, and the ability to make throws under pressure. However, his ability to read defenses and make quick decisions will be tested against a seasoned Texas defense.

Rashada’s success will largely depend on his ability to manage the pocket and avoid making mistakes. If he can stay poised and execute efficiently, he could keep Arizona State competitive and potentially lead an upset. Texas will likely bring pressure, so Rashada must be prepared to make quick, accurate throws to avoid sacks and turnovers.

2. Xazavian Valladay, Running Back
Xazavian Valladay is a dynamic running back for Arizona State who has the ability to break open games with his speed and vision. Valladay’s ability to pick up yardage on the ground will be crucial in keeping the Texas defense honest and opening up opportunities for Rashada in the passing game. He is also a dangerous weapon in the passing game, adding another layer to the Sun Devils’ offensive attack.

Against a Texas defense that can be aggressive and blitz-heavy, Valladay’s ability to pick up key yards on the ground could help Arizona State sustain drives and control the tempo of the game. If Valladay can consistently gain positive yards, it will force the Longhorns’ defense to focus on him, which may create opportunities for Rashada to exploit the secondary.

3. Elijah Badger, Wide Receiver
Elijah Badger is one of the top receiving threats for Arizona State and will be a key player to watch in the passing game. Badger has the ability to stretch the field with his speed and can also make tough catches in traffic. His size and athleticism give him the versatility to line up on the outside or in the slot, allowing him to create mismatches against Texas’ secondary.

Badger’s ability to create separation and make contested catches will be crucial for Arizona State to move the ball through the air. He is also dangerous after the catch, capable of turning short passes into big plays. If Rashada can develop a rapport with Badger and find him in space, Texas will need to be ready to contain the playmaking wide receiver.

4. Kyle Soelle, Linebacker
On the defensive side of the ball, Kyle Soelle is the leader for the Arizona State Sun Devils. Soelle is a versatile linebacker who excels in both coverage and stopping the run. His ability to read the quarterback’s eyes and react quickly will be essential against Texas’ dynamic offense. Soelle will likely be tasked with stopping the run game and containing Ewers in the pocket, as well as making sure that Worthy doesn’t break free for big plays.

As the heart of Arizona State’s defense, Soelle must maintain discipline and keep the Longhorns from gaining momentum on offense. If he can disrupt the flow of the Texas offense, particularly in the passing game, it could give the Sun Devils a fighting chance to pull off an upset.

5. Jordan Clark, Cornerback
Arizona State’s secondary will be tested by the deep-ball threat of Xavier Worthy and the accuracy of Quinn Ewers. Jordan Clark, a talented cornerback, will be called upon to provide solid coverage and prevent big plays from Texas’ wide receivers. Clark’s ability to play physical and get his hands on Ewers’ targets could be a deciding factor in this matchup.

If Clark can lock down the Texas wide receivers and disrupt their timing with Ewers, it will force the Longhorns to adjust their offensive strategy. Clark’s ability to play sticky coverage and make plays on the ball will be key for Arizona State’s defense.