Amanda: We've got a quarterback controversy brewing, a top ranking to defend, and a season opener that can't come soon enough. You asked, we're answering — this is the Beatline Mailbag for your Arizona State Sun Devils.
Paul: And trust me, some of these questions are spicy. Let's get into it.
Amanda: Welcome back, Sun Devil Nation! I'm Amanda, and as always, I'm joined by the sharpest football mind we've got, Paul. We are officially one week away from kickoff against Morgan State, and the hype is real.
Paul: The team's sitting at 0-0, but they're already on top of the Big 12 standings. That's how much faith the league has in this squad.
Amanda: Today it's all about you — the fans. We're diving into the mailbag to answer your burning questions about the quarterback battle, the running back rotation, and just how far this team can go.
Paul: Plus, we'll hit a lightning round and maybe make a bold prediction or two. Stick with us.
Amanda: First up, let's talk about the biggest storyline right now. Sarah from Phoenix asks: 'With the season opener a week away, who's the starting quarterback? Is it Cutter Boley or someone else?'
Paul: Great question, Sarah. We've been saying for weeks that Cutter Boley has the edge, and I'm sticking with that. He's got the arm talent and the poise. But don't sleep on Cameron Dyer or Jake Fette — they've been pushing him in camp.
Amanda: So you're confident it's Boley? Because I've heard some chatter that the coaching staff might go with a two-quarterback system early on.
Paul: I think they'd love to establish a clear starter, but if Boley struggles, they're not afraid to pull the trigger. We saw that in the spring game. But for the opener, I expect Boley to get the nod and a long leash.
Amanda: Alright, next question. Marcus in Denver asks: 'The Big 12 preview says Texas Tech is the team to beat. How do you see ASU stacking up against them this year?'
Paul: Texas Tech is legit, no doubt. They've got a new quarterback, but they're loaded. However, our Sun Devils have the offensive line and running back depth to control the clock and keep Tech's offense off the field. That's how you beat a team like that.
Amanda: So you're saying we can hang with the Red Raiders?
Paul: Absolutely. And remember, we're ranked first in the Big 12 right now. That's not by accident. The front office and coaching staff have built something special.
Amanda: I love that confidence. Let's keep the mailbag rolling. @SunDevilSam asks: 'What's the realistic win total for this season? I've heard 9 or 10 wins thrown around.'
Paul: I've been saying at least nine wins since the offseason, and I'm not backing off. The schedule is favorable, and this roster has the talent to win the close games. Ten wins is absolutely within reach if the quarterback play is solid.
Amanda: That's a bold take, but I like it. We'll see if you're right in a few months.
Amanda: Alright, let's shift gears to the roster. Emily from Tempe asks: 'With so many running backs on the roster, who’s going to get the carries? I’ve seen Kyson Brown, Jason Brown Jr., and Cardae Mack all mentioned.'
Paul: That's a crowded backfield, for sure. Kyson Brown is the home-run threat, Jason Brown Jr. is the consistent downhill runner, and Cardae Mack — well, we've said it before, he's going to have a breakout year. I think you see a rotation early, but by conference play, Mack might be the guy.
Amanda: Interesting. So you're expecting Mack to emerge as the lead back?
Paul: He's got the size and the vision. And remember, he's been turning heads in camp. I wouldn't be surprised if he gets double-digit carries in the opener.
Amanda: Next question from @ASU_Alum: 'What’s the deal with the offensive line? We lost some guys, but I see a lot of new names. How confident are you in that group?'
Paul: The offensive line is the strength of this team, and that's not a knock on the skill positions. We've got veterans like Jalen Klemm and Rob Lapuaho, plus some young guys like Tana Alo-Tupuola who are ready to step up. They're going to pave the way for that running game.
Amanda: So you're not worried about the line?
Paul: Not at all. I think they're the reason we can win the Big 12. If they control the line of scrimmage, everything else falls into place.
Amanda: Let's get another one in. Brian from Gilbert wants to know: 'Who's a sleeper player to watch this year? Someone not getting a lot of hype.'
Paul: I'm going to go with wide receiver Chance Ables. He's been quietly impressive in camp, and with all the attention on the running game, he could be a mismatch in the passing game. Keep an eye on him.
Amanda: Love it. A name to remember. Alright, we're going to take a quick break, but stick with us — we've got a fun hypothetical coming up and a lightning round that's going to be fast and furious.
Amanda: Welcome back! Time for our favorite part of the mailbag — the hypotheticals. @DevilDogDan asks: 'If you could add any former Sun Devil to this year's team, who would it be and why?'
Paul: Oh, that's a great one. I'm going with a defensive playmaker — someone like a Terrell Suggs type. This defense is good, but adding a pass-rusher of that caliber would make them elite. Imagine that pressure on third downs.
Amanda: Ooh, I like that. I might go with an offensive lineman, like a Daryn Colledge, to make the running game even more unstoppable. But you're right, that pass rush would be scary.
Paul: Exactly. And now for the lightning round. I'll give you a quick take, and you respond with one word or phrase. Ready?
Amanda: Bring it on.
Paul: Morgan State in the opener — blowout or close game?
Amanda: Blowout. The running game is going to be too much.
Paul: Big 12 champion prediction?
Amanda: ASU. I'm all in.
Paul: Player most likely to have a breakout game in Week 1?
Amanda: Cardae Mack. He's going to run wild.
Paul: Bold. I like it. And finally, over-under on total wins this season: 9.5?
Amanda: Over. Easy.
Amanda: And that's a wrap on this mailbag! We talked quarterbacks, running backs, and made some bold predictions. Remember, we're picking ASU to win at least nine games, and we're expecting big things from Cardae Mack.
Paul: Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the Beatline Podcast. Share this episode with your fellow Sun Devil fans, and let's get ready for Morgan State.
Amanda: We'll be back next week with full coverage of the season opener. Until then, Forks Up!
Paul: Forks Up!