ASU’s Joson Sanon a big part of keeping GCU’s Tyon Grant-Foster at bay

Defensive effort sets the tempo

When Grand Canyon visited Arizona State on December 10, 2022, the ‘Lopes entered the contest as winners of five consecutive games and just one win shy of becoming bowl eligible. However, due in large part to the efforts of sophomore defensive end and reigning Pac-12 Defensive Freshman of the Year, the Sun Devils were able to secure a 30-21 victory, handing GCU its first loss of the season.

Sanon was a force to be reckoned with that day, registering a team-high seven tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss. He also added a quarterback hurry and a forced fumble to his stat line.

His performance was a microcosm of the Sun Devils' defensive effort as a whole. ASU held GCU to just 300 yards of total offense and forced the ‘Lopes to punt on eight of their 13 possessions.

After the game, ASU coach Kenny Dillingham praised Sanon’s performance, saying, “Joson is a special player. He’s got great size, strength, and speed, and he’s only going to get better as he continues to develop.”

Stopping GCU’s high-powered offense

GCU entered the contest averaging 33.2 points per game, but the Sun Devils' defense held them to just 21 points, 12.2 points below their season average.

The ‘Lopes’ lone touchdown came on a 29-yard pass from Tyon Grant-Foster to Jalen Richmond late in the third quarter. However, ASU’s defense stiffened in the fourth quarter, forcing GCU to punt on its final three possessions.

After the game, GCU coach Bryce Erickson said, “ASU’s defense played a great game. They were physical and they made it tough for us to move the ball.”

Sanon’s role in Grant-Foster’s struggles

Grant-Foster, who entered the game averaging 279.3 passing yards per game, was limited to just 197 yards by the Sun Devils' defense. Sanon played a big role in Grant-Foster’s struggles, pressuring him throughout the game and sacking him twice.

After the game, Grant-Foster said, “Sanon is a great player. He’s strong and he’s fast. He made it tough for me to get comfortable in the pocket.”

Conclusion

ASU’s Joson Sanon was a key part of the Sun Devils' defensive effort in their win over GCU. He was able to pressure GCU quarterback Tyon Grant-Foster, forcing him into mistakes and limiting him to just 197 passing yards.

Sanon’s performance is a sign of things to come for the Sun Devils. He is a rising star on the defensive side of the ball, and he is only going to get better as he continues to develop.

If Sanon can continue to play at a high level, he will be a big part of the Sun Devils' success in the years to come.