The 2019 Sun Bowl is moments away from kickoff in El Paso, Texas with the Seminoles set to clash with the Sun Devils. While both teams squeaked into postseason play, records don’t show the full story.
Herm Edwards and the Sun Devils created a formidable opponent for any team ASU faced. As for Florida State and former head coach Willie Taggart, it’s a bit of a different story.
How They Got Here: Florida State Seminoles
Wide receiver Tamorrion Terry is a special talent. Exceptional speed and a large frame standing at 6’4″, it’s no wonder the sophomore from Ashburn, Georgia plays a major role in this offense. A favorite target of QB James Blackman, Terry hauled in 50+ receptions, eclipsed 1,000 yards and caught eight touchdowns.
But when it comes to the offensive scheme of the Seminoles, look at running back Cam Akers. Akers totaled 1,144 yards and 14 scores on the ground and picked up another four scores Abraham Lincoln style through the air. Akers and Terry pushed an “okay” offense and decent enough defense to a 6-6 record. A matchup against Alabama State before rivalry week helped, too.
Willie Taggart’s office is at Florida Atlantic now, and while Mike Norvell is the new guy in charge in Tallahassee, he won’t be on the sideline until next season.
How They Got Here: Arizona State Sun Devils
Here at Student Union Sports, and really in our lives, we’re #FirmForHerm. No matter the talent level on the roster, the Sun Devils compete until the final whistle. That competitive nature led to an upset against Michigan State in 2018 in the first major game under the Edwards regime. 2019 was no different; another big upset over Michigan State in East Lansing this time AND a heroic effort against Oregon that ended their Playoff hopes encapsulated the entire season.
QB Jayden Daniels is the real deal for the Sun Devils, too. The freshman from San Bernardino, California tossed 17 touchdowns and finished second in team rushing. However, the best trait Daniels possesses is the ability to limit turnovers. The quarterback only threw two picks all season en route to a tremendously successful freshman season. Running back Eno Benjamin is a treat to watch, too. Bouncing off tacklers like it’s nobody’s business, it’s tough to watch and think he doesn’t have a legitimate shot at the pros in the future.
Player To Watch: Jayden Daniels, QB, Arizona State
I know I gushed about the freshman already, but against an average defense, watch for Daniels to have an explosive performance this afternoon.
Don’t believe me? Watch for yourself:
Stop. Degenerate and Listen.
I L-O-V-E LOVE LOVE LOVE the Sun Devils (-3.5) to cover. It’s an absolute lock. The total (53.5) is a bit trickier, but considering the explosive nature of both offenses, I like the over.
Jayden Daniels is your 2019 Sun Bowl MVP with 3 TDs through the air and 2 on the ground. Sun Devils send the Seminoles to hell, 45-31.