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Sun Devil Football Senior Tribute

Sun Devil Football Senior TributeSun Devil Football Senior Tribute

by Marco Salas, Walter Cronkite School of Journalism student and redshirt sophomore on the Sun Devil Football team

As the Arizona State football team prepares for the Duel in the Desert against their in-state rival, 23 seniors will be playing their last game in Sun Devil Stadium. They will be honored with a pre-game ceremony, joined by their loved ones and Sun Devil Football Head Coach Herm Edwards.

This senior class has been special during their time in Tempe. Over the past four, five, or in some cases even six years, they have excited Sun Devil fans, played their hearts out every snap, and developed into men prepared for life after football. 

They have had a winning record each year and have made a bowl game every time, winning the Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl in 2019. This senior class helped set the tone in Herm Edwards’ first year as head coach and helped set the bar for each class since. Most importantly, they have won four straight games against Arizona, the first time the program has accomplished the feat since a run from 1975-1978.

By leading with their words and actions and never backing down from adversity, they showed what it means to be a #SunDevil4Life. While this may be their last game in Sun Devil Stadium, ASU will always be their home. What better way to honor this inspiring group than to hear from the underclassmen who have had the chance to learn, observe, and bond with the leaders of the team. Here is a look at the Sun Devil Senior Class in the words of their teammates. 

Chase Lucas, Defensive Back (Chandler, AZ)

A rare five-year starter and captain of the 2021 Sun Devil Football team…Local standout that has made 48 career starts, the second-most in program history (Dexter Davis, 50)…Former freshman All-American developed into a multi-time Pac-12 All-Conference selection…Played in 52 total games over six seasons, collecting 216 total tackles, six interceptions, 34 pass deflections, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and a blocked kick…His impact can't be measured by on field performance, as he was a a main voice in the locker room who also led by example.

"Chase has been a big brother to me that I never had. He hosted me on my official visit and for the past three years, I got to play with him. He’s taught me so much about the game and how to be a leader, I love 24 to death, I’m going to miss him." Jordan Clark, Rs-So. Defensive Back

Darien Butler, Linebacker (Compton, CA)

Four-year starter and three-time team captain, accomplishing a rare feat…One of a select few Sun Devils who have been named captain as a sophomore, an indication of his leadership and work ethic…Went from under-the-radar recruit to a multi-time Pac-12 All-Conference honoree, boasting the title as one of the most feared linebackers in the conference…Produced at a extremely high level over 40 games (37 starts), recording 243 tackles, 24.5 tackles for loss, four sacks, three interceptions, seven pass deflections, four fumble recoveries, and three forced fumbles…One of the first signees of the Herm Edwards' era.

"It’s been an honor to play alongside 20. My whole demeanor and the way I play is because of Butler. He does everything the right way and inspires people on and off the field. He gives his all every play. I wish I can get to the level Butler plays at." Eric Gentry, Fr. Linebacker

Kyle Soelle, Linebacker (Scottsdale, AZ)

Local product and two-year starter who was named a captain of the 2021 Sun Devil Football team…Did not stop improving over his five years, developing into one of the conference's most versatile linebackers…Saw action in 40 games (14 starts), producing 137 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, four sacks, five pass deflections, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles.

"I’ve been at ASU for three years now and it’s been great to see all three guys develop, especially my brother. It’s been great to see how far he’s come as a player. I’m really fortunate to be underneath him and see how he goes through everything and I can get a feel for it. It’s been a cool opportunity because its been our dream to play at ASU in front of our family." Connor Soelle, Rs-Fr. Linebacker

Evan Fields, Defensive Back (Oklahoma City, OK)

Three-year starter at safety for Arizona State…Played in 44 career games, making 27 starts…Physical presence who was not afraid to make tackles in the box…Put up outstanding numbers over four seasons, making 200 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, four pass deflections, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.

"Much like the other older guys in the secondary, Evan has been a big brother to me these past few years. Knowing he’s back there with the intensity and effort he plays the game with is crazy to me. It’s something that inspires me every time I step on the field." Jordan Clark, Rs-So. Defensive Back
"Evan Fields has been a real big brother to me. He’s always checking in on me making sure I’m good and giving me advice on what to do. He’s always giving me tips and tricks on what to do. When he leaves I’m really going to miss him. Thank you Evan for everything you’ve done." T Lee, Rs-Fr. Defensive Back

Tyler Johnson, Defensive Lineman (Gilbert, AZ)

Local product who made a successful commitment to the defensive side after playing both ways in high school…Converted from linebacker to defensive end over the past two seasons, turning himself into one of the conference's best pass rushers…Played in 37 games over four seasons, making 19 starts…Compiled 106 tackles, 28.5 tackles for loss, 14.5 sacks, seven pass deflections, three forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, and a blocked kick in his career…Just outside the Top-10 in program history in career tackles for loss.

"Tyler always leads by example. He gives me pointers on how to analyze film and break it down. I appreciate everything he gave to me, his actions spoke louder than his words." B.J. Green II, Fr. Defensive Lineman

D.J. Davidson, Defensive Lineman (Mesa, AZ)

Local product and three-year starter in the middle of the defensive line for the Sun Devils…Disruptive force who was difficult to block, causing problems for opposing running games…Played in 36 games over his four seasons (26 starts), producing excellent numbers for a nose tackle…Compiled 131 total tackles, 16 tackles for loss, five sacks, six pass deflections, and a fumble recovery.

"DJ has been one of the guys that’s welcomed me from the start. He’s helped me figure out what the core values are on the team. When he’s on the field he gives it 100% even when his body isn’t. Every time he steps on the field it’s with tenacity and makes his presence known." B.J. Green II, Fr. Defensive Lineman

Merlin Robertson, Linebacker (Carson, CA)

Four-year starter who has made an immediate impact since arriving in Tempe…Freshman All-American who has proven to be one of the best linebackers in the conference over his career…Played in 40 games (37 starts), earning All Pac-12 recognition at multiple linebacker positions…Has collected 230 total tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, seven sacks, six interceptions, 11 pass deflections, four forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries…One of the first signees of the Herm Edwards' era.

"When I first came to ASU, Coach AP told me to watch Merlin and follow him. When I was down, Merlin held me up and told me to keep going. He believed in me and showed me how great I can be. He’s a big brother to me and has helped me mature more than anybody else. Words can’t even describe how much you changed my life." Eric Gentry, Fr. Linebacker
"The leaders in the linebacker room have been great big brothers to me, especially throughout this year. Seeing the goals we set for ourselves and seeing them follow through with them means a lot to us." Will Shaffer, Rs-Fr. Linebacker

Curtis Hodges, Tight End (Mesa, AZ)

Local product and two-year starter at tight end…Provided a big target and caused mismatches throughout his five-year career…Played in 39 games (14 starts), making 36 catches for 601 yards and four touchdowns…Emerged during his senior season, hauling in 20 passes for 374 yards and two touchdowns…Averaged over 16 yards per catch…Blocked two kicks during his freshman season.

"Curtis has been an inspiration to me because he knows how to play the game the right way. He plays physical on the field, but off the field, he’s one of the nicest guys I know" Ryan Morgan, Rs-Fr. Tight End

Shannon Forman, Defensive Lineman (Baton Rouge, LA)

Three-year starter on the interior of the Sun Devil defensive line…Stout presence in the run game…Played in 46 games (20 starts), making 62 tackles, three tackles for loss, three pass deflections, and two fumble recoveries…Made the highlight-reel with a interception return for a touchdown in the season opener against UTSA in 2018.

"Shannon has been a big brother to me. He showed me the ropes on how to play the three techniques. He’s a guy that empties the tank every day at practice. He’s not a vocal leader but when he is his words are loud. I want to model my game after him because he does everything right and plays the game the right way." B.J. Green II, Fr. Defensive Lineman

Rachaad White, Running Back (Kansas City, MO)

Breakout star of the 2021 season, proving to be one of the best running backs in a country…Has wasted no time making an impact in Tempe, turning heads in only two seasons…One of the most prolific and dynamic running backs in program history…Played in only 14 games, but still managed to run for 1,328 yards and 19 touchdowns on 203 carries…Averages 6.5 yards/rush…Added 48 receptions for 576 yards and two touchdowns out of the backfield…Collected 1,998 all-purpose yards and 21 total touchdowns.

"When I think of Rachaad, I think of a great guy. When I got here, he took me under his wing and showed me the ropes, and made sure I was right. When I would get in games he would take me to the side and tell me what I needed to do better. He’s like a big brother to me and when I eventually get on to that stage he’s on I’ll know how to perform because I looked up to him." George Hart III, Fr. Running Back

DeAndre Pierce, Defensive Back (Long Beach, CA)

Transferred to Arizona State for his final two collegiate seasons, becoming a full-time starter immediately…Played in 15 games as a Sun Devil, starting every one…Collected 77 total tackles, three interceptions, seven pass deflections, and one fumble recovery…Teamed up with Jack Jones for a highlight-reel interception return for a touchdown on a lateral…Son of Sun Devil Associate Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator Antonio Pierce.

"De'Andre Pierce was a good role model to me since the moment I enrolled early in January. He pushed me to the limits and was a leader for the team. I know he’s going to do big things at the next level." Tommi Hill, Fr. Defensive Back

Jack Jones, Defensive Back (Long Beach, CA)

Transferred to Arizona State for his final three seasons of eligibility…Made an immediate impact, becoming a starter right away…Played in 25 games in his Sun Devil career, making 24 starts…Accumulated 86 total tackles, five interceptions, 25 pass deflections, three forced fumbles, and blocked a kick…Two interceptions in the 2019 victory over Arizona.

"When I first came in, Jack was a big mentor to me. He took me under his wing and was quick to show me advice. Coming in as a young guy, Jack was a true big brother to me and I appreciate him." Macen Williams, Rs-Fr. Defensive Back

Kellen Diesch, Offensive Lineman (Trophy Club, TX)

Transferred to Arizona State for his final two years of eligibility…Solidified the left tackle position, occupying the spot from the moment he stepped onto campus…Did not miss any of his 15 games as a Sun Devil, starting all 15…Paved the way for one of the most prolific eras of rushing in the history of the program…Currently the highest-graded tackle in the Pac-12 according to PFF.

"Kellen brought a lot of energy and leadership into the O-line room. He came in from a different college and brought a sense of maturity. He was used to being in a college setting and helped out the younger guys get comfortable with it. Outside of football, he was easy to talk to and was a joy to be around." Ralph Frias, Rs-So. Offensive Lineman

Timarcus Davis, Defensive Back (College, TX)

Transferred to Arizona State for his final three years of eligibility…Played in 23 games as a Sun Devil, starting eight at cornerback…Compiled 51 total tackles, eight pass deflections, one fumble recovery, and one blocked kick.

"Timarcus has had a big impact on my career at ASU. He works hard, is determined, and is very humble. One thing I took from his technique. We’re always talking about technique like leverages on the wide receivers and the small details." Isaiah Johnson, Fr. Defensive Back

Henry Hattis, Offensive Lineman (Rio Rancho, NM)

Transferred to Arizona State for his final two years of eligibility…Solidified the right guard position immediately, earning the starting job upon arrival in Tempe..Started the first 13 games of his Sun Devil career before suffering an injury that has kept him out of the past two games.

"Henry’s locker is next to mine, so I always got a chance to talk to him. He’s had a big impact on my career because we can talk about football schemes and techniques. He’s helped me a lot since I've been here and I’m thankful for what he’s taught me." Austin Barry, Fr. Offensive Lineman

Erik Dickerson, Long Snapper (Scottsdale, AZ)

Local product and starting long snapper over the past three seasons…Unsung special teams standout, delivering accurate and timely snaps on both field goals and punts…Played in 27 career games.

"I’m beyond thankful for the time I spent with Erik on and off the field. He was a great teammate who showed up every day to be the best snapper that he could be. I wouldn’t be the player that I am today without his mentorship and help. I can’t wait to see what opportunities open up for him in the future if he continues the same dedication to his craft!" Gage King, Rs-So. Long Snapper

Corey Stephens, Defensive Lineman (Scottsdale, AZ)

Local product with an extremely successful track record in the classroom…Ultimate teammate that was willing to do anything to help the team win…Played offensive line to start his career and then switched to defensive line over the past two seasons…Appeared in all 11 games this season, serving as a reserve interior defensive lineman and playing on special teams…Played in 20 games in his career.

"Corey is the definition of a team player. He loves football and will do anything in order to help the team win. When I first got here he showed me what it took to play at the college level and helped me develop my technique. He loves working his craft and brings energy every day to practice and it carries over to everyone else." Marco Salas, Rs-So. Offensive Lineman

Jarrett Bell, Offensive Lineman (Norco, CA)

Filled a variety of roles over the course of his Sun Devil career…Played every interior offensive line position, finding a home as the backup center this year…Appeared in 13 games in his career, making two starts at guard…Tone setter in the weight room.

"Jarrett has been a great friend to me and everyone in the O-line room. He’s a student of the game and understands the offense. He’s helped me become a better player and loves to talk about football. He is a hard worker and will be successful with everything he does beyond football." Marco Salas, Rs-So. Offensive Lineman

Bryan Thompson, Wide Receiver (Moreno Valley, CA)

Transferred to Arizona State for his final season of eligibility…Found a home at the X position, emerging as the starter midway through the season…Quickly earned the trust of the coaching staff, becoming a big piece of the offense…Appeared in nine games, making four starts…Hauled in 12 catches for 127 yards while adding 17 yards on two rushing attempts.

"Bryan has been a huge impact in the wide receiver room since he’s been here. He’s a leader by example. When guys are having bad days, he’s there to lift up and motivate us as a group. When guys are going down he’ll talk to us individually and always has a great spirit. He’s just very consistent. He has the same attitude and body language. When it comes to games, he’s that guy." Lonyatta Alexander, Fr. Wide Receiver

John Stivers, Tight End (Pebble Beach, CA)

Transferred to Arizona State for his final two seasons of eligibility…Started his career as a walk-on before eventually earning a scholarship midway through this season…Key piece of the Sun Devil rushing attack, opening up holes for historic numbers over the past two seasons…Played in 10 games, making eight starts at tight end.

"John Stivers has been a big inspiration to me because he does everything right. He takes the time to study and knows the scheme. He’s one of the hardest working and smartest players that I've been around. I know he’s going to be successful wherever he goes in life."Ryan Morgan, Rs-Fr. Tight End

Logan Tyler, Kicker (Nixa, MO)

Transferred to Arizona State for his final two seasons of eligibility…Handled kickoff duties for the Sun Devils since his arrival, appearing in all 15 games…Has 50 career touchdbacks on kickoffs, with opponents averaging only 19.9 on kick returns…Also added three extra points in 2021.

"Logan has meant a lot to me in the aspect of being a mentor. When I switched to being a holder he really showed that I can have confidence in myself and that carried over to him. We had a really fun time and I appreciate his time here." Ethan Long, So. Quarterback

Jackson He, Running Back (Shaoguan, China)

Became an international superstar after becoming the first chinese-born FBS player to score a touchdown…Rushed for seven yards and a one-yard touchdown on seven carries in the 70-7 victory over Arizona…Played on the kick coverage unit the following game in the win over Oregon State.

"Jackson is a great guy. When I first got here he was the first person to talk to me. You never see him sad which makes me want to be like him because he’s the type of guy that knows how to put a smile on your face." George Hart III, Fr. Running Back

Vincenzo Granatelli, Defensive Back (Moorpark, CA)

Transferred to Arizona State for his final two seasons of eligibility…Earned playing time despite being a walk-on, working his way onto several special teams' units…Played in 12 games in his Sun Devil career, making four tackles.

"Vincenzo is a great guy and teammate to be around. He's a dedicated kid who does everything right and always has tons of energy. Most importantly, he’s someone who anyone can talk to and a great friend." Eddie Medina, Rs-So. Offensive Lineman

Don't miss your last chance to watch this group leave it on the grass at Sun Devil Stadium one final time. Purchase tickets here or watch the game on Pac-12 Networks at 2 pm MST, with Ted Robinson and Yogi Roth on the call. Tune-in to Pac-12 Network throughout the day Saturday for special features and insight into Sun Devil Athletics as Arizona State will be featured in the Pac-12 Network's Tailgate Show.