Kent State showed plenty of promise in non-conference play last fall, competing with Penn State for nearly a half and remaining within striking distance of Ole Miss for three quarters. But with a clean slate for a new season, the Golden Flashes’ trip to Arizona State was forgettable at best.
The Sun Devils’ defense stifled Kent State, seamlessly coasting to a 30-7 victory in Tempe. It was a slow start for both teams, as only 10 combined points were scored in the first half. The first play from scrimmage involved Arizona State racing past Kent State’s offensive line to sack Woody Barrett and force a fumble.