Arizona State's Shaun Aguano provides update on QB Emory Jones
Arizona State quarterback Emory Jones is in concussion protocol, interim coach Shaun Aguano said on Wednesday.
Jones was spotted participating in practice on Wednesday, but Trenton Bourguet took first-team reps during the 11-on-11 portion of practice, according to multiple reports from those in attendance. The Florida transfer was knocked out of Saturday’s 45-38 win over Washington after a hit to the head in the second quarter that resulted in a targeting penalty and an ejection.
According to Sun Devil Source, offensive coordinator Glenn Thomas said Jones “is doing good” and that the bye week came at the right time for ASU.
It would give Jones an extra week to potentially return without missing a game. Or, it could ignite a quarterback competition.
Thomas said “those decisions haven’t been made yet.”
ASU OC Glenn Thomas: "Emory (Jones) is doing good" and the bye week came at a good time to rest up players from injuries.
On who will be the team's starting QB against Stanford in a week-and-a-half: "Those decisions haven't been made."
— SunDevilSource.com (@SunDevilSource) October 12, 2022
Aguano didn’t exactly shoot the notion down, either.
“It is a competition daily,” he told reporters.”In my philosophy, I don’t think somebody is replaced because of injury. I always kept that policy when I’ve coached. Now in regard to the competition, it’ll be looked at closely. I think it’s good for both sides because it will raise both of their levels. From a relief standpoint, I know I have a quality backup that can win games for us. So that kind of takes a lot off my shoulders.
“The kids will see who the best person is. I’ve always told them I will play the best player, no matter the age, no matter size, no matter what it is. I will play the best football player that will get our team to win. … I’ll make sure I keep my word on that. Is it a competition? I think every position is a competition at practice. I just need to make sure we look at it through a clear lens.”
Bourguet completed 15 of his 21 passes for 182 yards and three touchdowns in relief of Jones. He had some truly strong moments throwing the ball, getting ASU into its stuff, and running the offense with a command you’d expect of a guy who took a ton of first-team reps back in the spring.
Arizona State plays Stanford (1-4, 0-4 Pac-12) when it comes out of its bye week on Oct. 22.