ASU football: Sophomore DB blossoming in spring ball

TEMPE, Ariz. — It’s not often a true freshman makes an impact during games in college football. That may be a harsh statement,  but it’s the truth. There is usually a significant learning curve, both physically and mentally. Freshman season is about development, more than game action.

For Keith Abney II, things were different. The true freshman defensive back from the Lone Star State saw the field in eight games last season. He came away with the first interception of his collegiate career against Oregon. The first, but probably not the last.

Now, heading into his second season with ASU football, the sophomore is blossoming.

Keith Abney II developing for ASU football

“I would argue that there’s nobody on defense with a higher football IQ,” ASU defensive coordinator Brian Ward said about Abney following a spring practice on Thursday. “He’s a guy that’s gonna play a lot of football for us.”

Abney has been a consistent standout through these first few spring practices, and that’s no accident.

“(There’s) always room for improvement,” Abney said following practice. The Texas native was asked about one thing he’s focusing on in the spring. “Being coachable, just learn from your coaches and listen.”

That mindset is exactly what has allowed his development to flourish so far.

“My technique… has improved majorly,” Abney said. “I worked all offseason on the little things, so now coming out here to play fast is all-natural.”

The importance of film

A big part of his development according to Abney, is watching film.

“You watch definitely more film (in college than in high school),” he said. “High school you can kinda get away with relying on talent. In college everybody is elite. You gotta come out here and watch film and know what you’re doing. It’s kinda like studying for a test.”

Abney is all too familiar with studying as he’s one of the few football players enrolled in Arizona State’s Barrett Honors College. The defensive backs’ meticulous study and work habits are paying off both on the field and off it.

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