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Arizona State Football: 3 takeaways from victory vs. New Mexico State

By Andrew Miller

TEMPE, AZ - AUGUST 31: Running back Kalen Ballage #7 of the Arizona State Sun Devils warms up before the college football game against the New Mexico State Aggies at Sun Devil Stadium on August 31, 2017 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
TEMPE, AZ - AUGUST 31: Running back Kalen Ballage #7 of the Arizona State Sun Devils warms up before the college football game against the New Mexico State Aggies at Sun Devil Stadium on August 31, 2017 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

2. Todd Graham needs to make a bowl game

The PAC-12 South could be even better this season than it was last. USC has massive expectations. UCLA has a potential All-American behind center in Josh Rosen. Colorado is the former division champion and could have another great season led by running back Phillip Lindsay. Even Utah could compete in the conference.

Arizona State needs to at least clear their non-conference slate. They have a key matchup against the Texas Tech Red Raiders in Week 3 on Sep. 16. Texas Tech and Arizona State played in one of the highest-scoring games of the 2016 season.

If the Sun Devils can win all three games outside of PAC-12 play, they only need to win three more in conference action. Arizona and Oregon State are easier opponents that Arizona State should be favored against. UCLA, Utah, and Oregon are winnable games but the Sun Devils will be challenged.

Graham is on the hot seat and needs an improved record this year to save his job. Arizona State has the offensive talent to do it.

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