Arizona State Struggles With Fundamental Execution
The Sun Devils face significant consistency challenges on both sides of the ball during the 2026 season.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Football
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Arizona State football is grappling with persistent execution issues as the team records an average margin of defeat of 30.7 points in three recent losses. The Sun Devils currently sit at 13th in the Big 12 for run defense, marking a steep decline from previous years.
Why it matters
The team struggles to maintain competitive performance quality once negative momentum takes hold during games. Coaches are now under pressure to refine fundamental blocking and tackling techniques to stabilize production.
Arizona State run defense currently ranks 13th in the Big 12, a significant drop from their 1st place finish in 2024. Opposing lead running backs have capitalized on these gaps, averaging 14 yards per carry against Baylor and 15 yards against Texas Tech.
The players
Jalen Klemm
Jalen Klemm is an offensive lineman who has allowed 11 pressures during the current season.
Champ Westbrooks
Champ Westbrooks is a player who has been flagged for five total penalties this year.
The details
The program has cycled through double-digit offensive line combinations this season by moving players between center and guard positions. Individual performance metrics also reflect these difficulties, with Jalen Klemm allowing 11 pressures and Champ Westbrooks committing five total penalties.
Timeline
In 2024, Arizona State's run defense ranked first in the Big 12.
In 2025, the team's run defense placed third in the Big 12.
During the 2026 season, the run defense has fallen to 13th in the conference.
Season Trajectory
The team's 2026 defensive output marks a sharp departure from the standards established in 2024, when the unit led the Big 12. This regression has forced the coaching staff into an ongoing search for lineup stability through constant shuffling of the offensive front.
The frequent shifts in offensive line combinations complicate expectations for consistent pass protection and rushing lanes. With lead running backs averaging double-digit gains against the defense, opponents are currently finding success by targeting interior gaps.
The takeaway
Improving fundamental skills remains the primary path forward for Arizona State to reverse its current losing trend. Players and staff must solidify positional roles to prevent the wide margins of defeat observed in recent conference play.
Further reading
For more in-depth coverage of the team's ongoing development, visit the Football section.
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Is consistent execution of fundamentals more important to your local team's success than player talent?
