Baylor's Air Raid lands in Tempe
When the Sun Devils take to the field on Saturday, they will be facing a familiar offensive style from last season.
That's right, it's the return of the Air Raid. Popularized by the late Mike Leach in the 2000's and brought to Baylor by Art Briles as the "veer and shoot" in 2008, the Air Raid is exactly as it sounds. Overwhelmingly dominated by passing plays, offensive coordinator Jake Spavital leverages the fast-paced no-huddle offense with run-pass options and aggressive play action concepts.
DJ Lagway is the obvious focal point of this offense, but the ankle injury he suffered Week 1 against Auburn hampered his style in last week's return against Colorado. While not listed on the initial injury report for the Bears, his overall health and mobility will be something to watch on Saturday.
That's not to say that the Sun Devils are out of the woods if Lagway goes down. Nate Bennett proved himself as more than a mere backup in Lagway's absence, leading the Bears to wins over Prairie View A&M and Louisiana Tech. Admittedly not the same quality of competition that Arizona State will bring, but it showcases the depth that Baylor has at quarterback.
Gavin Freeman has had his number called the most from the wide receivers, and it's not particularly close. He leads the team with 364 receiving yards, and is tied with Maryland's Chris Durr Jr. for the most receptions in all of FBS with 35 through his first four games. A scrappy slot receiver, the transfer from Oklahoma State doesn't let his size (5'9", 181 lbs) define him.
Baylor's vertical attack, while usedless frequently, is just as potent. Jayden McGowan and Louis Brown IV are the primary deep threats, both averaging over 20 yards per reception and able to win the one-on-one battles with ease.
In Baylor's running game, Dawson Pendergrass and Caden Knighten carry the majority of the load, with different primary skillsets. Pendergrass clocks in as the physical identity of the backfield, using his ground and pound abilities to pace the team with 287 rushing yards on the season, while Knighten is utilized more in pass blocking schemes and as a safety option for check downs in the passing game.
A healthy Lagway poses problems with his ability to stretch plays with his feet. A week off to rest and recover has afforded Brian Ward's defense the time to prepare for another mobile quarterback, and contain him the way Marcel Reed was held in check three weeks ago.
The Sun Devils and Bears will kick off at 7:30pm Arizona Time from Mountain America Stadium, airing on ESPN.
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