Arizona State’s QB Battle May Not Be the Offense’s Biggest Concern

Arizona State is nearing an important decision at quarterback.

After two weeks of fall camp, Cutter Boley and Mikey Keene have separated themselves in the competition for QB1. A decision could come as soon as this week, but what Arizona State has shown throughout camp suggests the bigger question may not be who starts at quarterback. It may be how much time that quarterback has to operate.

Boley brings valuable experience from Kentucky and has the size and arm talent that could become important when Arizona State gets into its biggest matchups of the season. Keene, meanwhile, has been the steady veteran. With three years of experience under his belt, he has shown confidence, command and consistency throughout camp.

Neither quarterback has completely taken control of the competition, though.

Both Boley and Keene have produced impressive moments while also going through stretches where the offense has struggled. During 7-on-7 periods, both quarterbacks have shown an ability to connect with Arizona State's receivers and tight ends. Once the offensive and defensive fronts are added, however, things have looked different.

The offense has struggled to consistently move the football during team periods. Pressure has disrupted the pocket, drives have stalled and both quarterbacks have been forced into sacks, rushed decisions and throws out of bounds as Arizona State's defensive front continues to create stops.

That is certainly encouraging for the Sun Devil defense. For the offense, it highlights an area that could determine just how successful this group becomes.

The concern became even more noticeable during Camp Tontozona's scrimmage, when the offense failed to reach the end zone.

Arizona State is also looking for answers elsewhere within the offense. Clayton Smith is being moved into the tight end room, adding another athlete to the position and creating additional competition. The move gives the Sun Devils another option as they continue searching for the right combination of players around whoever eventually wins the quarterback job.

Arizona State has weapons. The quarterbacks have shown they can distribute the football when given time. But right now, the offense has not consistently shown an ability to sustain drives and move the ball when the full unit is on the field.

If the Sun Devils want the offense to reach its potential, the offensive line will have to create a cleaner pocket and give whoever wins the quarterback job room to work. The tight end room will also need to establish itself as another reliable piece of the offense.

If the front five can provide that protection and Arizona State can find more consistency around the quarterback, the ceiling for this offense rises significantly.

Kenny Dillingham's first major decision will be determining his QB1.

Once he does, the questions surrounding this offense will quickly shift to the players around him.