Jaelen Strong expected to play in Friday’s Territorial Cup showdown
Nov 25, 2014, 12:25 AM | Updated: 12:25 am
TEMPE, Ariz. — Arizona State junior wide receiver Jaelen Strong is expected to play in Friday’s Territorial Cup game in Tucson against 12th-ranked Arizona.
Strong suffered a concussion in a loss to Oregon State two weeks ago and didn’t suit up for the Sun Devils’ 52-31 win over Washington State last Saturday.
“(Jaelen) makes us a lot better,” laughed head coach Todd Graham in his press conference Monday, after being asked what impact the return of Strong might have on the team.
“He and D.J. (Foster) are two catalysts in what we do. It’s great having him back, that’s something that will help us tremendously.”
Strong is a semifinalist for the coveted Biletnikoff Award (given to the nation’s top receiver) and has snagged 71 receptions for 982 yards and nine touchdowns on the season.
On the side of the Wildcats, freshman quarterback Anu Solomon re-injured his ankle last week against Utah and it’s up in the air whether he’ll play.
Arizona State safety Damarious Randall is sure Solomon will get the nod, however.
“Unless his leg gets cut off I’m pretty sure he’ll be out there,” Randall quipped.
And if the Sun Devils see backup Jesse Scroggins?
“I don’t know who that is,” said Randall. “I don’t think I’ve seen much of him on film.”