ASU's first week of fall camp was physical

Arizona State closed the first week of fall football camp Saturday night with a spirited practice at Mountain America Stadium, where competition, physicality and an increasingly important quarterback battle took center stage.

The intensity occasionally continued beyond the whistle, but head coach Kenny Dillingham viewed that edge as evidence of a team growing closer. Players competed with the familiarity—and accompanying bragging rights—of teammates who have developed strong relationships away from the field.

That energy was especially visible in the race to become ASU’s starting quarterback. Cutter Boley and Mikey Keene continued splitting opportunities with the first-team offense. Keene opened the team-tempo portion of practice, while Boley led the first unit into the final 11-on-11 period.

Boley delivered perhaps the strongest performance of the group, displaying improved touch and accuracy while making several effective throws on the move. Keene remained firmly involved in the competition, and the quarterbacks collectively avoided throwing an interception.

True freshman Jake Fette continued to make a favorable impression. His composure and ball placement allowed receivers to produce yards after the catch, strengthening his case for continued opportunities behind Boley and Keene. Cam Dyer also received his first team-tempo series of camp and used his mobility to create several gains.

The quarterbacks worked behind a first-team offensive line featuring Champ Westbrooks at left tackle, Maki Stewart at left guard, Tana Alo-Tupuola at center, Wade Helton at right guard and Jalen Klemm at right tackle.

ASU’s receivers experienced a less consistent night. The talented group committed several drops, while running back Kyson Brown and receiver Omarion Miller each put the ball on the ground. Defensive tackle Rashad McKenzie recovered Miller’s fumble.

The Sun Devils’ running game, which had been relatively quiet through the opening practices, showed encouraging signs. David Avit produced several strong runs and a notable catch-and-run. Cardae Mack flashed his acceleration on a 30-yard burst through the middle, while Demarius Robinson added a productive gain during team work.

Defensively, the front emerged as one of the evening’s strongest units. C.J. Fite, Julian Hugo, Josh Shanklin and Ramar Williams each recorded a sack, reinforcing Dillingham’s confidence in the defensive line.