The Sun Devils will be without one of their most explosive players in a critical first game.
The Arizona State Sun Devils announced minutes prior to Saturday's game against Texas A&M that running back Kalen Ballage is ruled out of the game and returned to Tempe due to illness.
Ballage, listed as the No. 2 running back on ASU's depth chart behind Demario Richard, was expected to make a significant impact against the Aggies. The Sun Devils were also hoping for Ballage to contribute on defense at the team's signature Devil backer position.