ASU’s Chris Coyle not worried about staying in spotlight

Chris Coyle is having himelf a season to remember; and the season is just two games old.

Not only has the junior tight end already doubled his output from a year ago but his performance against Illinois surpassed his entire body of work in 2011.

“Life’s been a little hectic,” he said about his newfound attention.

Last Saturday night in a game nationally televised by ESPN, Coyle set career highs in catches (10), receiving yards (131) and touchdowns (2).

“I didn’t realize that many people were watching the game,” he said after hearing from family all across the country and many of his friends from his hometown of Westlake Village in Southern California.

“But afterwards when I looked at my phone, it just started piling up with text messages. That was pretty cool hearing from everyone.”

Coyle knew his position would be utilized more under the new coaching staff, but even he was surprised with his numbers.

“I knew the ball had come to me a couple of times,” he said.

In his previous 25 games as a Sun Devil, Coyle had caught only eight passes for 138 yards.

“I just try to think about catching everything that comes my way.”

Of course now, after the breakout performance, Coyle understands he won’t be sneaking up on teams anymore.

He knows Missouri has him listed on their ASU scouting report.

That’s fine, he said. He’s okay with being anonymous once again.

“I am perfectly happy with getting one or two catches a game or even just opening up holes for Cameron Marshall,” Coyle said. “As long as I play good football and execute my technique and our team wins I’m more than happy with whatever I get.”

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