Arizona State Mailbag: Jake Fette, No. 8 BYU, Basketball Season and Everything Sun Devils

Quarterback choice remains open

Fette emerged as a possible starter after Keene injured his knee during the Kansas State game. The freshman won over ASU fans in an emergency appearance, though he attempted only six passes.

Starting against No. 8 BYU in a loud road environment would be a major test for Fette. Keene, a fifth-year player with experience in high-profile games, offers another option, but the effect of his injury on his performance is uncertain.

Fette’s limited game film could make preparation harder for BYU. The outlook favors Fette, but both quarterbacks remain possible starters.

Basketball outlook under Bennett

Randy Bennett’s first ASU team showed promise in a Sunday game at New Mexico. The article describes a roster with a high floor and a nonconference schedule that could help the Sun Devils build an early winning record.

That schedule may also leave ASU facing a difficult adjustment in conference play. The team is expected to handle early games, encounter challenges from Arizona and Houston, and compete for wins in the lower half of the conference.

The forecast is a place in the middle of the Big 12, with a chance to upset ranked opponents. The article also predicts ASU will return to March Madness for the first time since 2023, noting the expanded bracket.

Players to watch this season

Team MVP candidates include senior forward Paulius Murauskas, senior guard and forward Emmanuel Innocenti, and sophomore guard and forward Dillan Shaw. Innocenti is identified as the Big 12 Preseason Newcomer of the Year and a strong defensive presence; Shaw is noted for his scoring potential.

Murauskas, a Saint Mary’s transfer, led ASU with 31 points and nine rebounds at New Mexico. His size and production could suit a system that emphasizes rebounding. Australian ball handler Foxwell recorded seven assists and reached the free-throw line against New Mexico despite a difficult shooting night. He finished plus-eight, the team’s best mark in Albuquerque, and previously scored 27 points in Portland’s upset of No. 6 Gonzaga before putting up a season-high 35 against Pepperdine.