The first time the Arizona State Sun Devils (2-3, 1-1 Pac-12) had senior running back Kalen Ballage take a direct snap last year against Texas Tech, some thought it would be a seldom-used set to throw off defenses.
Then it kept happening.
Against the Red Raiders, Ballage had six touchdowns from what has become known as the Sparky formation as part of a record-setting eight touchdown game in 2016.
Through the rest of the season, Ballage and senior running back Demario Richard both took a considerable amount of snaps behind center, resulting in even more big plays and touchdowns, including one passing from Ballage to tight end Kody Kohl.