Ohio State's quarterback Troy Smith poses at the Woody Hayes Facility with a Heisman Trophy on Dec. 3, 2006. Neal C. Lauron/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Players to Watch: Sun Devils and Potential Awards

Originally posted on Arizona State Sun Devils on SI
By Tanner Cappellini | Last updated Nov 19, 2025 3:00 PM ET

This week, the Arizona State Sun Devils are playing the Colorado State Buffaloes this week who last year had the Heisman Trophy Winner in Travis Hunter. So, here are some who are some Sun Devils who could win some awards as ASU's season is wrapping up.

Fred Biletnikoff Award

The Fred Biletnikoff Award goes to the best receiver. As a receiver with the Raiders in the NFL, Biletnikoff was a smooth and fluid route runner, which is very similar to ASU's Jordyn Tyson, who could win this award this season.

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Tyson has been excellent this season. No matter if it's deep or short, an over-the-field route or an out route, Tyson can truly do it all. A ton of ASU's best plays have involved Tyson this season, such as a big run and catch to help ASU beat Texas Tech.

There have been other great receivers in college this season; however, due to Tyson's impact and amazing playability. There is a good chance that he wins this ward, which would be an excellent way for Tyson to finish his time as a Sun Devil.

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Jim Thorpe Award

Thorpe is one of football's pioneers, as he was an amazing athlete. The award goes to the best defensive back, which ASU's Keith Abney II could totally win. Abney has had a fantastic season. Not only has he been great in coverage, but Abney has been making key clutch plays as well.

A great example is the most recent game for ASU, where Abney got the game-winning interception against the West Virginia Mountaineers.

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Frank Broyles Award

The Broyles Award goes to Assistant Coach of the Year, which could go to either of ASU's coordinators. Offensive Coordinator Marcus Arroyo has done a great job adjusting the offense to Jeff Sims for the past couple of games.

Arroyo has also done a really nice job of getting ASU's other receivers going, such as Jalen Moss , Jaren Hamilton Malik McClain, when Jordyn Tyson has been out due to injury.

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Defensive Coordinator Brian Ward could also be a candidate for the award. ASU's defense has done a great job this year at all three levels from defensive line, to linebacker, to secondary. So, Ward could win it as ASU's defense has only allowed 30 points once this season, which is impressive considering the great schedule ASU has had this year.

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Overall, the Sun Devils have some players who could be considered for the award. As ASU continues to build, it would be cool to see them get recognized for the talented players and coaches they have with their program.

We would highly appreciate it if you would discuss your thoughts on what awards ASU's players and coaches could win. Additionally, follow @Kevin Hicks on X to get updates on when new ASU on SI pieces drop!

This article first appeared on Arizona State Sun Devils on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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