Looking Ahead For ASU Sun Devils In NFL Draft

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NFL Mock Draft 2012: Todd McShay Has Buffalo Bills Picking Brock Osweiler 41st

The field for new quarterbacks has a few sure-fire hits but plenty of potential misses. Andrew Luck of the Stanford Cardinal is almost a dead lock to be the number one pick drafted by the Indianapolis Colts, and Robert Griffin III of the Baylor Bears will probably go second to the Washington Redskins.

Brock Osweiler of the Arizona St. Sun Devils is one of those quarterbacks with a lot of potential, although it's hard to say for sure how well he translates to the next level.Todd McShay released his latest mock draft (click here to view the full thing, you'll need an ESPN insider account to see all the picks), and it has Buffalo taking a chance on Osweiler in the second round. Osweiler gets picked 41st overall, which is about the right place for him.

To talk about the prospect of drafting Osweiler with Bills fans, go to Buffalo Rumblings. To discuss the thought of drafting Osweiler with Sun Devil fans, hit up House of Sparky. Talk about mock drafts in general with Mocking the Draft.

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NFL Draft 2012, Vontaze Burfict Did Not Help Draft Stock At Combine

Former Arizona St. Sun Devils linebacker Vontaze Burfict has developed a bit of a reputation and he didn't do very much to dispel it at the NFL Combine.

When asked about his situation at ASU, Burfict blamed the former ASU coaching staff, telling reporters they "kind of messed me up."

And then there were his skill measurements:

Rob Rang, a draft analyst for CBSSports.com points out that Burfict was slower in the 40 than 36 of 48 defensive linemen at the combine. He was even smoked by the heaviest guy there, 346-pound nose guard Dontari Poe of Memphis.

Oh, and Burfict also had the worst broad jump among linebackers and tied for next-to-last at his position in the vertical jump.

Don't expect to see Burfict too high in any mock drafts moving forward. At least not until he sorts out his attitude and proves he has the physical ability to make it at the next level.

For more on the Combine, head over to SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub. Or, check out their Draft blog, Mocking the Draft.

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2012 NFL Draft: Brock Osweiler Looks To Make Some Noise At Scouting Combine

Many wonder where Arizona State's Brock Osweiler will go in the 2012 NFL Draft, causing some disparity as to where he should be placed in a mock draft, or even the actual draft itself.

Wes Bunting over at National Football Post feels that due to Osweiler's mix of size and athletic prowess could make him a great candidate to have a terrific combine. Where that leave's him in term of his draft stock though, Bunting did not mention:

QB Brock Osweiler: Arizona State (6-8, 240)

Osweiler has the combination of size, athleticism and overall arm strength to really impress this week. He looks the part, can make all the throws and I expect him to be exceptional throwing vs. air. Now, his tape is inconsistent. However, with a number of the top quarterback prospects not throwing in Indy this week, Osweiler is the guy who has the skill set to steal the show and catapult his draft stock.

With guys like Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III at the combine as well, Osweiler could really set himself up as the 'next best thing' behind these guys and find a team earlier in the draft that needs a QB. Now he just has to go out and take care of business.

For more on the Combine, head over to SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub. Or, check out their Draft blog, Mocking the Draft.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Vontaze Burfict To Ravens In First Round

Arizona St. Sun Devils inside linebacker Vontaze Burfict is one of the few ASU players projected to find high placement in the 2012 NFL Draft. Some analysts are predicting that he will be selected late in the first round.

The latest mock draft at Draft Tek once again suggests that Burfict could go to the Baltimore Ravens in the first round, as the No. 29 overall pick. Analyst Eugene Stasak offers the following take:

Another week and another Vontaze Burfict selection. There isn't a whole lot that hasn't been said before. Burfict is a perfect fit for the Ravens in terms of scheme, need, and value. Ray Lewis is nearing the end and all three other ILBs on the roster are set to hit free agency this year. I expect at least one to be back, Dannell Ellerbe as he's restricted, but McClain is the starter and he could be moving on. Burfict would be able to step in and contribute as a rookie while learning from the great Ray Lewis, a player to whom he compares very favorably. Some other options would be if one of the big four OTs falls, Dont'a Hightower as an ILB alternative, Peter Konz as Matt Birk is contemplating retirement and is a free agent, and trading out is always a real possibility for Ozzie.

It will be a few months before all this shakes out, but Burfict could do a lot worse than find himself with the formidable defense in Baltimore.

For all news and information regarding the Arizona State Sun Devils, please visit House of Sparky. For updates and perspective on the Baltimore Ravens, head on over to Baltimore Beatdown. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out Mocking the Draft.

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NFP: Vontaze Burfict In Need Of Strong Combine Performance

When 2012 draft talks began to heat up, a popular name when it came to linebackers was Arizona State inside linebacker Vontaze Burfict. Many saw him as a hard-hitting Rey Lewis type inside linebacker and in early mock drafts, he was picked to go in the first round to the Eagles or Ravens. However as time went on, Burfict's stock fell as he had image problems, and NFL Network's Albert Breer was told by NFL execs that most see him as a "fake tough guy," and that he's "soft and out of shape" and shouldn't be a first-round pick.

For these reasons, National Football Post's Wes Bunting lists Burfict as one of the players heading to the NFL Combine that needs to make a great impression to improve their draft stock.

A talent with a natural pop on contact, can hold the point of attack when he wants to and for his size exhibits good range and fluidity. However, due to the character concerns it will be interesting to see what kind of shape he's in when asked to workout. Talent evaluators want to see how passionate he is about the game and this process, and getting a feel for what kind of shape he's in will be key.

With a great showing at the Combine, Burfict could work his way back into the first round. If he doesn't show scouts that he's worth it, he could fall pretty far.

For more on the Arizona State Sun Devils, head to House Of Sparky, and for more on the draft, head to Mocking the Draft.

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NFL Mock Draft: Todd McShay Would Draft Brock Osweiler in First Round

When former Arizona State quarterback Brock Osweiler declared for the NFL Draft, most believed that it was foolish. However, as we all get closer and closer to the draft, the 6-8 signal caller for the Sun Devils is getting a bit of buzz as a pro QB prospect. In fact, ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay happens to be a big fan.

Said McShayabout Osweiler on Arizona Sports 620:

"The more I watch, the more I love it. He's a competitor...he's accurate despite unusual mechanics and that unusual release. I would draft Brock Osweiler in the late first round range."

Late first round? That's quite a jump from maybe the third or fourth rounds originally.

As of now, Osweiler is ranked in the top five quarterback prospects in the draft. By the time draft day comes around, he might be a first rounder.

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NFL Draft 2012: Vontaze Burfict Seen As 'Fake Tough Guy' By Some Analysts

According to the NFL Network's Albert Breer, Arizona State Sun Devils linebacker Vontaze Burfict is already getting a bad reputation in some circles as being much less tough than originally thought, and shouldn't be amongst the top 30 or so talents entering the NFL Draft this year.

Per Albert Breer on Twitter:

... When I did a mock last month, initially had Burfict at end of Round 1. Sent it to 6 or 7 personnel guys. All told me to take Burfict out

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) February 16, 2012

... One of these execs thought I was particularly crazy for having him at 31 or 32, and called Burfict a "fake tough guy." Ouch.

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) February 16, 2012

Those are the exact opposite words you want associated with a linebacker, and with reports of him showing up 'soft and out of shape' at combine training in late January as well, Burfict will have to do some serious damage control when he hits the NFL Combine next week. He is seen by almost everyone as an outside the first round type of guy now, but could possibly work his way back with a solid combine and pro day.

For more on the Sun Devils, head over to House of Sparky. For more on the NFL Draft, make sure to check out Mocking the Draft.

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NFL Mock Draft: Mike Mayock Not Impressed With Vontaze Burfict

Ever since coming to Arizona State University and blowing up players right and left, people have talked about Vontaze Burfict's playing on Sundays as a member of the NFL. However, in 2011 he had a subpar year, for whatever reason. Even still, many draft experts expect him to be a first round pick.

NFL Network draft guy Mike Mayock finally busted out some tape on Burfict.

According to Mayock, Burfict "lacks instincts, runs around blocks, gets enveloped by bigger people," and also doesn't see Burfict as a first-round pick at all.

It's hard to deny his physical talents, but with Burfict also comes with a bunch of baggage.

Will he end up falling out of the first round? It's hard to say, but as it always happens, be ready for more players to get poor scouting reports.

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NFL Draft 2012: Brock Osweiler Could Be Selected After Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III

The 2012 NFL Draft is just a few short months away and there are many quarterback prospects looking to boost their stock with strong workouts and interviews with potential teams. One of those players is Brock Osweiler, who declared for the NFL after a strong junior season in Tempe. According to Todd McShay of ESPN, he could see the 6'8" gunslinger move into the first round and be the third QB selected after Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III.

@Kevin_Weidl momentum building for Osweiler as a late-first round grade after 3 tapes studied.Maybe 3rd QB after Luck, RGIII?

— Todd McShay (@McShay13) January 18, 2012

There are not too many teams drafting late in the first round looking for a quarterback other than maybe the Broncos, but a team could certainly try and acquire yet another first round pick to land Osweiler should they feel he is ready for the next level. There are still concerns with the former Sun Devil, most notably his decision making under pressure and pocket presence, but there is a lot to like about Osweiler, especially his arm strength and mobility.

The NFL Draft will run from April 26-28.

For more on Osweiler and to discuss ASU football, head on over to House Of Sparky.

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NFL Mock Draft 2012: Vontaze Burfict Taken By Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens have been known for the past decade for their hard-hitting defenses, and it's been headlined by the dominant Ray Lewis in the middle. However, Lewis is getting up there in age, and the Ravens might need to think about finding a replacement. Perhaps Baltimore should look down to the desert for the right replacement.

Draft Tek has released its latest mock draft, and the Ravens end up taking Vontaze Burfict of the Arizona St. Sun Devils with the 29th pick overall. Burfict has been woefully inconsistent in college, but there's no denying his all-around talent and ability to make plays if given the right opportunities. Draft Tek has more on why Burfict is right for Baltimore.

Perhaps getting a pass rusher opposite DPOY Terrell Suggs is the missing piece. GM Ozzie Newsome loves to maneuver on draft day and he's also a best player available proponent so predicting their selections is typically tough. That being said, Burfict seems like the perfect fit in terms of scheme and need. Burfict is a violent middle linebacker with great size and athleticism that will remind Ravens fans of a young Ray Lewis. Burfict is a great blitzer and he could be an instant contributor as a rotational linebacker and would be the long-term replacement for the Ravens legend. -Eugene Stasak Gino's Draft Talk

To talk about Burfict with the Ravens, check out Baltimore Beat Down. To learn about Burfict with the Sun Devils, hit up House of Sparky. To discuss the NFL Draft in general, look at Mocking the Draft.

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NFL Mock Draft 2012: Todd McShay Projects Vontaze Burfict To Baltimore Ravens In First Round

The 2012 NFL Draft is just a few short months away and many players and coaches are getting ready for a hectic next few weeks as workouts and skill camps begin. One of the most intriguing players on any draft board is Arizona St. Sun Devils linebacker Vontaze Burfict, who has the potential to be an elite talent when he has his head on straight.

While most have Burfict projected for the second round, Todd McShay of ESPN has him going late in the first round to the Baltimore Ravens.

29. Vontaze Burfict, ILB, Arizona State

Burfict is a physical freak with tremendous athleticism and explosive power. He's a top-20 talent, but questions about his discipline on and off the field are hurting his stock. However, Burfict could contribute immediately and would benefit greatly from the leadership and guidance of Ravens MLB Ray Lewis. And you have to wonder whether the Ravens would press their luck and take another player with character flags after bringing CB Jimmy Smith into the fold last year.

Burfict seemingly has a similar mindset to what some current Ravens have had in the past -- the, "I don't care if I hurt my team, I'm going to go for the big blow regardless" mindset -- but as McShay mentions, Burfict would have plenty of guidance from Ray Lewis and company. Should the physical linebacker learn from the veteran defensive core in Baltimore and harness his anger into production on the field, he could add to a defense that has ranked near the top of the AFC for years.

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ASU OL Garth Gerhart Injures Finger, Is Out Of 2012 Senior Bowl

After a disappointing end to the Arizona State football season, disappointment has struck again, but this time to a player hoping to find his way into the NFL through the 2012 NFL Draft happening in April, undeserving of such a disappointment. Sun Devil offensive lineman Garth Gerhart, who was previously set to participate in the 202 Senior Bowl on the North roster is no longer going to play due to injury.

The news was revealed through the official Senior Bowl Twitter account, announcing this:

#ArizonaSt OL Garth Gerhart is also out (finger). He'll be replaced on the North roster by #WakeForest OL Joe Looney. #SeniorBowl

It is a shame that a finger will keep Gerhart out of the game.

His absence will leave receiver Gerell Robinson as the lone Sun Devil on wither roster.

The NFL Combine is a month away. Hopefully Gerhart can recover and make a good showing there so he can get drafted and join his brother (Minnesota Vikings RB Toby Gerhart) in the NFL.

Stay tuned as we will keep you updated with what happens to the players on the rosters that played for Arizona and Arizona State.

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NFL Mock Draft 2012: Arizona State ILB Vontaze Burfict May Go To Eagles In Second Round

The 2012 NFL Draft is fast approaching. More and more analysts continue to weigh in with mock drafts and other analysis. One of the latest mock drafts has a suggestion concerning Arizona St. Sun Devils linebacker Vontaze Burfict.

In their latest mock draft, the website Draft Tek suggests that Burfict may be selected early in the second round, going to the Philadelphia Eagles as the No. 46 overall pick. Here is what Joe Mays of Draft Tek has to say:

It's no secret that the Eagles need to overhaul their LB corp this offseason. Despite finishing 8th in total yards allowed/per game, the Eagles had trouble against the run. They finished tied for 19th in yards/rush (4.4), 16th in rushing yards/game (112.6) and were prone to allowing big runs (tied for 16th in runs over 20 yards, tied for 26th in runs over 40 yards). The LB group was a disaster at times. The strongest of the gang was OLB Rolle according to Pro Football Focus' proprietary rankings. Chaney, Matthews and the rest were downright atrocious. The Eagles need a MLB and an OLB added before training camp. It's likely that one will be taken in the first 3 rounds in April. Burfict's physical attributes make his selection here an absolute steal. He's a monster MLB that could revolutionize the Eagles D with his play. The reason he's still available is character concerns and attitude issues. However his talent would be hard to pass up.

The Eagles certainly have some holes on their defense that they will need to shore up following their disappointing "Dream Team" season in 2011.

For all news and information regarding the Arizona State Sun Devils, please visit House of Sparky. For updates and perspective on the Philadelphia Eagles, head on over to Bleeding Green Nation. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out Mocking the Draft.

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NFL Mock Draft 2012: ESPN's Todd McShay Feels Brock Osweiler Could Be A First Round Pick

As college football players from around the country prepare to hopefully play on Sundays next year, ESPN has Todd McShay and Mel Kiper Jr. arguing with one another as to where these proverbial pieces might fall in the 2012 NFL Draft.

One player that is causing some discord between the two is Arizona State quarterback Brock Osweiler, who will forego his senior season in Tempe and enter a draft full of quality QB's like Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III and Arizona's Nick Foles. Some felt this was a bad move for Oswieler, but as McShay explains, he could work his way into the first round:

"Brock Osweiler, the more tape I watch out of him coming out of Arizona State, the more impressed I am with him," McShay said. "He's got a unique delivery and he's not very fundamentally sound yet, but he's got unbelievable physical tools and he's a very good leader. I think he could move into that first round."

He'll have some work to do in the upcoming months to improve his stock, but with his physical atributes Oswieler could make a big move up the big board.

For more on the Sun Devils, check out House of Sparky. For all the latest AZ sports news, follow us on Twitter @SBNArizona and "Like" us on Facebook.

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Mel Kiper Mock Draft 1.0 Lands Vontaze Burfict With Ray Lewis, Baltimore Ravens

The 2012 NFL Draft is still three months away, but now is when ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper, Jr. comes to the forefront. On Wednesday, he released his first mock draft projections (Insider access required to read whole article) and Arizona State linebacker Vontaze Burfict is expected to be a first round pick. In this version, he is expected to land at the end of the first round with the Baltimore Ravens.

Writes Kiper:

He's been drawing comparisons to Ray Lewis since he got to Tempe, and hopefully Lewis will be around for another year to mentor Burfict. But either way, the Ravens have to consider what they'll do, as retirement talk now is a reality for their legendary linebacker, and Burfict is the kind of player who could develop into a star in his own right in that defense. He is instinctive and rangy, and plays with an edge. He developed a bit of a reputation as a guy who was prone to the personal foul, but if he channels that energy, Burfict could be a very good one. He has a ton of experience as an immediate freshman starter and reads the game pretty well.

One thing about Burfict is how polarizing he is to many fans and draft experts. Kiper seems to be a big fan. If he does end up as a teammate with Ray Lewis, a sure Hall of Fame player, and perhaps the best linebacker ever to play. If there were ever the perfect situation for Burfict to be able to channel his intensity and mature as a player, Baltimore would be it.

With the NFL Combine coming up in a month, watch for Burfict's performance and how he moves around on the draft board. We likely have not seen the last of his movement on people's draft board.

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NFL Mock Draft 2012: Arizona State's Vontaze Burfict, Brock Osweiler Amongst Top Underclassmen

NFLDraftScout.com received an early list of underclassmen committed to the 2012 NFL Draft, and as of Sunday, a record-tying 56 eligible juniors and redshirt sophomores had entered the player pool. The number ties last year's total. Each player is listed by position and school as well as where he ranked on deadline day.

Sun Devils linebacker Vontaze Burfict shows up as the 44th-best player available and the third-best inslide linebacker on the board.

Boasts prototypical size and explosive hitting ability but hasn't played with the consistency scouts would like and developed a well-earned reputation as a hot-head prone to foolish penalties. The ultimate boom or bust pick of the 2012 draft.

ASU quarterback Brock Osweiler also makes the grade, coming in as the 107th best player overall and 7th-best QB on the board.

Osweiler's emergence in his first full season as the starter played a critical role in ASU's return to a bowl game in 2011. Though more athletic than Ryan Mallett, Osweiler has a similar tall, lanky frame that could lead to struggles escaping the pocket in the NFL. Scouts would have liked to have seen him return for his senior season but there is no denying Osweiler's talent and impressive production (4,036 yards, 26 touchdowns/13 interceptions) in a pro-style offense this season.

For all news and information regarding the Sun Devils, please visit House of Sparky.

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NFL Mock Draft 2012: Arizona State LB Vontaze Burfict Could Go To Steelers In First Round

The 2012 NFL Draft is fast approaching and the front offices are making their plans. The mock drafts by columnists and sportswriters are beginning to take shape and some Arizona St. Sun Devils players are popping up on many of them. One of the players drawing attention is Sun Devils linebacker Vontaze Burfict.

NFL website Titan Sized predicts that Burfict might be the No. 24 overall draft pick, which would send him to the Pittsburgh Steelers as their first round selection. Here is what they have to say:

24. Steelers - Vontaze Burfict, ILB, Arizona State

The Steelers’ defense is getting old and Burfict is a stud. He has the Steel Curtain attitude and would look just right in black and yellow. He hits hard and he runs fast, they will love him.

For all news and information regarding the Sun Devils, please visit House of Sparky.

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2012 Senior Bowl: ASU's Garth Gerhart Accepts Invitation To Play

With their football careers closing it’s doors, many seniors getting a chance to play the 2012 Senior Bowl are jumping at the opportunity, and Arizona State offensive lineman Garth Gerhart is no different, accepting an invitation to play in this year’s Senior Bowl on Jan. 28 at Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile, Ala.

Gerhart, a 2011 Second Team All-Pac-12 honoree, has been the Sun Devils’ starting center for the past two years. Gerhart suited up for 39 career games while at ASU, getting the start in 35 of them, seeing playing time at center, right guard and left guard. He was named a team captain before the start of the 2011 campaign and graduated in the spring ‘11 with a bachelor’s degree in History.

The NFL Network will televise the 2012 Senior Bowl, with kickoff set for 2 p.m. MST on Jan. 28.

For more on the Sun Devils, head over to House of Sparky to get in on the action. For all the latest AZ sports news, follow us on Twitter @SBNArizona and "Like" us on Facebook.

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NFL Mock Draft 2012: Arizona State LB Vontaze Burfict Could Go To Ravens In First Round

The 2012 NFL Draft is fast approaching and the front offices are making their plans. The mock drafts by columnists and sportswriters are beginning to take shape and some Arizona St. Sun Devils players are popping up on many of them. One of the players drawing attention is Sun Devils linebacker Vontaze Burfict.

Mock draft website Drafttek predicts that Burfict might be the No. 27 overall draft pick, which would send him to the Baltimore Ravens as their first round selection. Here is what Drafttek has to say:

Baltimore is a team that rarely has any glaring needs and this year is no different. Ray Lewis missed four games this season due to injury and had his lowest snap total in seven years. His backup, Brendon Ayanbadejo, is a career special teams ace that doesn't offer much on defense. Lewis is 36 so it may be wise to investigate a long-term replacement. Vontaze Burfict is a big, strong, athletic, violent player that projects best to play an attacking scheme like the one the Ravens use. Burfict's athletic ability should have him in the top five but he tends to play too out of control, constantly getting unnecessary roughness penalties. In fact, he was benched at multiple times this season, including the bowl game due to his reckless play. Baltimore is a perfect place for him though as he would be able to sit and learn from arguably the best ILB ever and is a player that was once known for having similar tendencies.

The Ravens were a solid team in 2011 and as always, were built around their punishing defense. That defense is finally beginning to show signs of age, however. The Ravens know that they'll need to start shoring up the next generation of Baltimore defenders. Burfict would be a good fit in that respect.

For all news and information regarding the Sun Devils, please visit House of Sparky. For perspective on the Baltimore Ravens, head on over to Baltimore Beat Down.

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ASU Football: Cameron Marshall Will Return For Senior Season

Not a whole lot has gone right for the Arizona State Sun Devils in recent months, but the program finally received some good news on Friday. According to a report, star running back Cameron Marshall has decided to return for his senior year. This news comes just a few hours after starting quarterback Brock Osweiler announced his intentions to enter the 2012 NFL Draft.

"I am definitely still coming back for my senior season," the Sun Devils junior running back said Friday.

"I'd be lying to you if I said we weren't going to miss Brock," Marshall said. "I didn't see that one coming, but we've got some guys behind him who have been in the program so I think we'll be able to be successful."

Marshall rushed for 1,050 yards this past season and reached the end zone 18 times, which was a major bump from his production as a sophomore, when he ran for 787 yards and nine touchdowns. With a lot of uncertainty surrounding the offense next season, it is very safe bet to assume the Sun Devils will run the ball early and often with Marshall.

For more on Arizona State athletics, head on over to House Of Sparky.

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Arizona State Football Attendance Boost Ranks No. 1 In Nation

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Brock Osweiler Goes Pro, Releases Statement

Well, Brock Osweiler has made it official: he will leave Arizona State and enter the 2012 NFL Draft. After deliberating on the decision for the past few weeks and conferring with his parents and coaches, the 6'8, 240 pound ASU QB made his announcement this afternoon.

Osweiler set school records for completions (326), attempts (516) and completion percentage (63.2) last season while throwing for 4,036 yards - the most in ASU history and the first over the 4,000 yard mark - while racking up 26 throwing touchdowns, the fourth most TD completions in school history. He added four rushing touchdowns as well.

Here is Osweiler's statement on his decision:

Winter Break was an important time for me and after much deliberation, I came to an important decision. In a lot of ways it was similar to my last year in high school. In high school, I was heavily recruited and visited a few of the top programs in the country. Of all of the recruitment trips, it was ASU that struck a lasting cord. Every person I encountered was so kind and it made my decision at the time more difficult to make. As a young man, I had some serious decisions to make, not even 18 years old and I had to make a choice that would ultimately impact my life forever.

As many of you know, before I chose to live in Arizona, I had a commitment to Gonzaga University to play basketball. For a over a year I was certain that this was my path, it wasn't until May 16th of 2008 that I was certain I had to be ASU's quarterback. My coach at the time, McCarvel stood by my decision and I graduated a semester early from my class. By January 2009 I was officially a Sun Devil.

ASU has taken excellent care of me and the city of Tempe has changed my life for the better. Not a single day has gone by where I have had to second guess or question my decision to enroll at ASU. I knew that in my heart this was part of my destiny. While I bleed and sweat Maroon and Gold I have now made the second-most difficult decision in my life. I have decided to declare myself eligible for the NFL draft. It was an exceptionally difficult decision to make, but having spoken to my family and close friends it became clear to me that this is the next path I must take to advance my personal and professional career.

I wish I could truly thank everyone that has helped me through my years at ASU, but there isn't a proper way to match what everyone has done for me. I have been touched by the most amazing people and have made relationships I know will last my entire life. When I arrived in Arizona I was spellbound and culture shocked by Kush stadium. Seventy-two-thousand people could fit in the stadium which is 40,000 more people then the entirety of my hometown of Kalispell, Montana.

ASU has been my home for the last three years. I will never forget how many people have gone out of their way to make ASU home for me. I would like to thank the fans that have supported me through out all of the trials and tribulations. Sincerely, there is nothing like walking onto Kush Field before kick off and having the crowd erupt. There are so many things that I will miss about ASU, but I know that I will be a Sun Devil until I die. I have a pitchfork tattoo on my ribs to symbolize the BEST three years of my life. Thank you again for all of the support and positive wishes throughout this process.

Go Devils!

Now the discussion of how high he'll be selected in this year's draft can begin!

To discuss Osweiler declaring for the NFL draft and its effect on the Sun Devils,head to House of Sparky. To find out where Osweiler could end up, go to Mocking The Draft.

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Brock Osweiler To Declare For NFL Draft, According To Report

The Arizona St. Sun Devils are looking like they'll have a rocky start to the Todd Graham era. They'll have to break in a new quarterback to go along with their new head coach. Brock Osweiler is apparently headed to the next level.

Osweiler is an intriguing prospect at the next level. He's got good mobility and has proven to be pretty accurate, although he's been throwing in a pretty quarterback-friendly system. He's also athletic and tall, which actually might give him some intangible advantage.

With Osweiler out, sophomore QB Mike Bercovici, redshirt sophomore Taylor Kelly and redshirt freshman Michael Eubank become the new candidates to start at quarterback next season. None of them are particularly experienced, so there could be rough patches ahead for ASU football before things start improving.

To discuss Osweiler declaring for the NFL draft and its effect on the Sun Devils, head to House of Sparky. To find out where Osweiler could end up, go to Mocking The Draft.

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2012 NFL Draft: Brock Osweiler Ponders Declaring

The Arizona St. Sun Devils really would like to have an experienced quarterback like Brock Osweiler come back. But Osweiler has been ambivalent since his head coach Dennis Erickson was fired and offensive coordinator Noel Mazzone left on his own accord for UCLA. Osweiler probably wasn't prepared for these departures (particularly Mazzone), and is now weighing his options.

Osweiler seems to have three possibilities: Does he stay at Arizona State for one more grand hurrah season? Does he transfer somewhere and try and play one last season as a grad student? Or does he head to the draft? Craig Morgan of Fox Sports Arizona reports.

Arizona State quarterback Brock Osweiler is considering declaring for the NFL draft, an school official confirmed on Thursday. If he does declare, the repercussions could devastate the program in the short term.

"He means a lot to this program," senior linebacker Brandon Magee said. "You see what he did last year. He put up big stats and was a great leader for our offense."

The deadline for Osweiler’s decision is Jan. 15, but the school official said Arizona State expects a decision "sooner rather than later."

Osweiler is an intriguing prospect (you know, because he's tall and all, if you haven't heard). But it's unclear if he could really jump up to the top of the draft pile. He would likely be a project quarterback who would need time to develop in the pros and become a solid possibility. If Osweiler explores his draft potential, he's unlikely to end up with the answer he wants to hear.

To discuss Osweiler and the Sun Devils, head to House of Sparky.

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College Football Schedule 2012: ASU Football Plays Illinois, Missouri, Two Thursday Night Games

The Arizona St. Sun Devils are going to have a pretty intense schedule to start up the Todd Graham era. After a non-conference matchup with Northern Arizona, things get much harder in a hurry.

On September 8th, ASU hosts Illinois, who will also be breaking in a new head coach. That should be a winnable contest. The next week, the Sun Devils go to Missouri to take on Gary Pinkel's Tigers. Missouri is just breaking into the SEC and will have a tough contest with Georgia the week before, so this could be a tough game.

In conference play, the Sun Devils host the Utes before embarking on a road trip to California. After a bye week, ASU gets two Thursday night games in a row with a road game against Colorado and a home game against Oregon. Arizona State then hosts UCLA, goes on the road to Oregon State, has perhaps their toughest game of the year at USC, plays Washington State at home, then finishes the season with their rivalry game against Arizona on The Friday night after Thanksgiving.

To discuss the ASU football schedule, head to House of Sparky.