Vontaze Burfict #7 of the Arizona State Sun Devils points and yells at quarterback Matt Barkley #7 of the University of Southern California Trojans just prior to a play at Sun Devil Stadium on September 24, 2011 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)
3 Total Updates since October 13, 2011
about 1 year ago Commentary 0 comments
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Vontaze Burfict has had a strong start to his junior season and is a leader on a team on track for the Pac-12 championship game. His reputation of being one of the hardest hitters in college football has garnered exposure from the national media, but has it improved his draft stock?
According to Ted Miller, Mel Kiper of ESPN does not think so and he has lowered Burfict a few slots on his big board:
Burfict has a showcase game at Oregon on Saturday. The Ducks' speedy, high-tempo running game will provide him plenty of opportunities to throw his 250 pounds around.
"Huge game in Eugene for Burfict. He has great instincts, makes plays sideline to sideline and is far more disciplined than he gets credit for. Has a ton of experience since landing at ASU."
A big game against Oregon's high-flying offense would be huge for Burfict. With recent reports indicating he may elect to return to ASU in 2012, all eyes will be on the linebacker this Saturday evening.
For more on Arizona State, check out House of Sparky.
over 1 year ago Update 0 comments
The Arizona St. Sun Devils could be decimated by senior losses for next season. Shelly Lyons and Colin Parker will both be moving on, as will primary backup Oliver Aaron. Brandon Magee will be back after suffering an injury early in fall camp, but he does plan to redshirt and return, so that is a potentially positive development for ASU football.
However, the strength of ASU's defense next season will hinge on whether star linebacker Vontaze Burfict decides to come back for his senior year with the Sun Devils. Burfict is one of the likeliest candidates to be a first round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, and it would make perfect financial sense for him to forego his senior year of eligibility and head off for the bright lights of New York City in April.
But according to Craig Morgan of ASU Rapid Reports for CBS Sports, Burfict is considering coming back. Arizona State might lose a step as a team, but with Burfict back, they'll still be a force to be reckoned with and a definite competitor for the Pac-12 South title in 2012.
To discuss the future of Burfict with the Sun Devils, go to House of Sparky.