ASU (almost) ready to trim field in QB derby

Arizona State football coach Todd Graham said after Saturday’s practice that two quarterbacks will be taking the majority of the snaps starting Monday. If you’re reading the tea leaves, recent events suggest that those two players will be Taylor Kelly and Michael Eubank, with Mike Bercovici falling from favorite to outsider, although that's far from certain with most of fall camp and Saturday's scrimmage closed to media and other observers.

Graham also said he wants to come out of Camp Tontozona on Aug. 18 knowing which quarterback will be starting the opener, though he reiterated that he could play two quarterbacks in games.

“After 11 days, it’s been almost another spring ball, and we really get to see the strengths of these quarterbacks,” offensive coordinator Mike Norvell said. “I’m getting a better feel every day.”

If Kelly does end up taking the majority of the snaps, it would be wise to remember that nothing is set in stone for ASU’s trio of young and inexperienced quarterbacks. If Kelly struggles early, Bercovici could have a shot to reclaim the spot most thought he had when spring ball ended.

Then there’s Eubank, who may have the best combination of tools to run the new offense but lacks experience, having redshirted last season. Ball security is a major point of emphasis with Graham and Norvell. Eubank admitted tossing an interception on Saturday; Bercovici did not, although he struggled in that area earlier in camp.

Kelly has protected the ball well and has improved his timing in the intermediate and deep throws.

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