Why ASU Defensive Backs Might Be Team's Best Unit
Most people talk about Arizona State’s offense when discussing this team, but I honestly think the defensive backs might end up being the best unit on the roster. From everything coming out of spring practices, the DB room keeps showing up almost every single day.
Reports from practice have been consistent, and that consistency stands out most. It’s not just one big play here or there; it’s the same players making plays day after day.
When you keep hearing the same names, it usually means those guys aren’t just flashing, they’re producing at a high level every single practice. That kind of reliability is exactly what you want heading into a new season.
Ashton Stamps Is Becoming Star
One player that keeps getting mentioned is Ashton Stamps. It really sounds like he’s had one of the best springs out of anyone on the team so far. Interceptions, pass breakups, just being around the ball constantly, that’s what you want from a corner.
That’s the mark of a true cornerback, someone who doesn’t just cover well, but actively disrupts plays. If he continues on this trajectory, there’s a strong chance he locks down one side of the field this season.
And having a corner you can trust at that level changes everything defensively. It allows the coaching staff to get more aggressive with blitzes, roll coverage elsewhere, and put pressure on opposing quarterbacks without worrying about getting burned.
Portal Additions Are Paying Off
One thing Arizona State’s staff really focused on was improving the secondary through the transfer portal, and it looks like that decision is already paying off. The defense sounds more physical, more confident, and deeper than it has been in the past few years.
Depth is huge in college football because injuries are always a factor. If you only have two good corners, you’re in trouble. But if you have four or five, now you can rotate guys and keep everyone fresh.
Why This Matters So Much
In the Big 12, teams throw the ball a lot. If your secondary isn’t good, you’re going to lose games no matter how good your offense is. That’s why this position group might actually decide how good Arizona State is this year.
If the defensive backs are as good as they’ve looked in spring so far, this defense could be much better than people expect.
I think the defensive backs are one of the most important position groups on the entire team, and they might quietly become the strength of Arizona State football this season. If they keep improving, this defense could surprise many people.
Lizzie Vargas attends Pasadena City College, pursuing a career in sports journalism. As a lifelong Raiders fan, she's excited to combine my passion for sports with storytelling that brings the sports world to life.