Herm takes reins at ASU

Coach displays enthusiasm during introductory press conference

TEMPE — Herm Edwards talked about trains and conductors, Catholics and Devils, told stories and cracked jokes, his timbre rising and falling for emphasis during a nearly hour-long introductory news conference.

No doubt, the man can win over a room.

Arizona State is hoping he can win a few games, too.

Edwards was introduced as the Sun Devils coach Monday, ushering in a new, unexpected era for the program with an impassioned news conference inside Sun Devil Stadium. “I’m on the train. I’m on the train and I’m going to ride this train until it stops — it’s not going to stop,” Edwards said. “We’re going. We’re going with you. And if you want to board a little bit later, we’ve got a seat for you. Might not be comfortable, but you’ll have a seat.”

Arizona State wanted to move quickly following the firing of Todd Graham after six seasons.

When word came out this week that it would be Edwards, the former NFL coach and ESPN analyst, the reactions were quick and wide-ranging.

Those in support of Edwards’ hiring praised his passion, his ability to connect with recruits and their families, many repeating the key line from his famous rant as coach of the New York Jets: “You play to win the game!”

Those against Arizona State’s decision pointed to the long gap in Edwards’ coaching resume and his limited experience coaching at the college level.

There also were calls of cronyism for Arizona State athletic director Ray Anderson, a former agent, hiring one of his former clients. Social media filled with GIFs and memes of trash bin fires and planes crashing.

The criticism continued Sunday night when Arizona State, while announc-