Positional analysis: Deep defensive line ready to make Arizona State's defense elite

Wyoming v Arizona State | Bruce Yeung/GettyImagesAfter previewing the Sun Devils’ offensive line earlier this week, it’s time to take a look at their defensive line. Defensive coordinator Brian Ward isn’t known for blitzing much, instead preferring to get pressure with his front four, putting the onus on them to affect the quarterback.

Ward also deploys a rotation of linemen to keep guys fresh. Last year, EDGEs Elijah O’Neal and Clayton Smith were the team’s leaders in both pressures and sacks, while Prince Dorbah and Justin Wodtly weren’t far behind them. Arizona State hit a stroke of luck and returns all four players, on top of several of their top defensive tackles, giving Ward a deep…