The ASU Sun Devils are coming off of a disappointing 41-27 loss to the Oregon Ducks and head into their bye week this weekend. Despite the loss, the Sun Devils are making progress on the injury front and could see several players back on the field at full strength in two weeks against Colorado.
The big news for the Sun Devils is the return of defensive end Junior Onyeali, who has struggled with injuries but plans to make his return against Colorado. Erickson confirmed after Tuesday's practice what he said on KTAR radio earlier in the day regarding Onyeali who practiced with the second unit defensive line.
Left tackle Evan Finkenberg may be ready to go against Colorado as well, but should play against UCLA if he isn't healthy by that time.
Cornerback Omar Bolden, who has been dealing with a knee issue since the offseason, was dressed for practice and did some work on Tuesday. Head coach Dennis Erickson has stated that Bolden may return after the bye week in recent weeks, and it appears that both Erickson and Bolden will judge the timeframe of his return on the day-to-day feel of his knee.
Center Garth Gerhart and running back Cameron Marshall both hope to use the off week to heal their ailing injuries. Gerhart, who is dealing with an ankle problem, will rest up this week in an attempt to recover. Marshall, meanwhile, who posted 97 yards and one touchdown on 20 carries against the Ducks, has struggled with a knee injury and wasn't quite at full strength during the game. He will use the bye week to catch up and should be back at 100% against Colorado.
The Sun Devils will recuperate during the bye week and hope to come back healthy when Colorado comes to town. For a team that has suffered injuries to several key contributors, a week off may be just what the team needs to return energized and refocused.