Coyle prepares for an encore after last year’s breakout performance
It’s no secret that when a player has a breakout year, he can expect other teams to do their homework in the offseason to ensure they don’t get caught off guard again.
That’s why this upcoming season will be a telling one for Arizona State senior tight end Chris Coyle, who emerged as the Sun Devils’ leading receiver in 2012 while filling a variety of roles in ASU’s unique H-back position.
Now Coyle is out to prove that he can thrive even when opposing defenses turn their focus to stopping him.
“He’s not going to sneak up on anybody this year,” tight-ends coach Chip Long said. “But the key thing with Chris — he’s going to find a way to get it done. He’s just pure toughness and grit. If there’s anybody out on this field that’s going to find a way to get open, it’s him.”
ASU has been tinkering with new formations in spring practice, including some double tight-end sets with Coyle and senior Darwin Rogers.
With Coyle’s offense already well-established, he has been focusing on other aspects of his game such as footwork and pass protection.
“He’s going to have his catches,” Long said. “We want him to be a great pass protector, route runner, run blocker, the whole package. And then be a stud on special teams. That’s what you got to be if you want to play tight end at an elite level. And he has the ability to do that.”
Notre Dame not coming?
A report surfaced this week that Notre Dame won't travel to Tempe to play Arizona State in 2014, but ASU has not yet given up hope.
The school's statement: “As far as Arizona State University is concerned we still have a valid contract with the University of Notre Dame to play football in 2014. We look forward to hosting them at Sun Devil Stadium.”
The Sun Devils still play Notre Dame this season. The two schools meet Oct. 5 in Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. It's a Notre Dame home game, part of the “Shamrock Series,” which allows the Fighting Irish to play at an “off-site” venue for greater exposure.