Arizona State and Notre Dame look as though they will be playing an elimination game in the College Football Playoff race this weekend. The Sun Devils, stepping outside of Pac-12 play for one week, are expected to be without starting defensive tackle Jaxon Hood.
Hood has not practiced at all this week, which means he is not likely to see the field against the Irish this weekend. According to USA Today, Hood is sorting through some personal issues off the field, which are preventing him from preparing with the team. Hood’s absence is notable this week, because Arizona State will look to disrupt Notre Dame quarterback Everett Golson.
Sophomore Viliami Latu is listed second on the depth chart for Arizona State, so it would be likely Latu slides into the starting role at nose tackle this week.
Arizona State could be without another key player on the defensive line. Demetrius Cherry was suspended for Arizona State’s last game against Utah and Todd Graham has not determined his status for the Notre Dame game. It was previously reported Cherry was suspended following a DUI charge.