Arizona State Sun Devils

ASU Football: ASU vs. Cal Rapid Reaction

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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ASU football improved to 4-0 on the season by defeating the Cal Golden Bears 51-41.

This win by the Sun Devils is their first win against the Golden Bears at home since 2007, and it was a well deserved victory. Here are my initial thoughts after the game.

1. ASU has one of the most balanced offenses in the Pac-12

The Sun Devils didn’t over commit to the run game after the success they have had with the run game during non-conference. They also didn’t over commit to passing the ball, which is good for Manny Wilkins so he doesn’t feel rushed into having to make all of the big offensive plays with his arm. As long as it continues to work, like it has every single game this season, the balanced offense will be ASU’s claim to fame this season.

2. The defense only likes to play inside the last 5 minutes of the game

Before their stellar ending to the game, the defense looked awful. Cal had a very easy time moving the ball not only through the air, but on the ground as well. The defense did what it always does though, as it came up big when it needed to.

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There is a quality on this ASU team that is a very dangerous one to have, they take a long time to get going. This is great because even a big half time deficit, like the one they had tonight, doesn’t seem like the end of the world as you know they will score some points in the second half. It is bad because once they face a team that is consistent at playing for the whole game, they will be in big trouble.

3. ASU’s upcoming schedule looks favorable

Next week ASU will be at USC. At first look, this should be a win for ASU. USC has struggled so far this season and most recently they blew a lead over Utah. Once you take a closer look, this game could be a scary game for ASU as they will not only be on the road, but they will be facing a USC team that will be looking to prove that they are still a force in the Pac-12.

In the end, they should come away with the victory and then they will face a UCLA team at home that has yet to show what type of team they are going to be. It should be an exciting few weeks for the Sun Devils.

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