Talented ASU middle linebacker Vontaze Burfict won’t start against the Washington Huskies, by may still play in the game. Sun Devils head coach Dennis Erickson disciplined the hot-headed backer after multiple hits after the whistle against Oregon State last week. Burfict head-butted Oregon State quarterback Ryan Katz, threw a punch at an Oregon State lineman later and, finally, threw another punch during the run of play in the fourth quarter, apparently forgetting that punching a guy with a helmet on is useless.
Erickson was clearly not pleased with Burfict while relaying the message of his suspension to the Arizona Republic’s Jeff Metcalfe.
“That can’t continue to happen,” Erickson said of Burfict’s frequent personal fouls. “If it does, he just won’t play. That’s where it’s at right now. We’ve been talking to him for a long time, and we’ll continue to do that. Munnsy will start because of that, and Vontaze will play some.”
Without Burfict, senior Gerald Munns will start at middle linebacker for the Sun Devils.
Washington takes on Arizona State at Husky Stadium this Saturday at 7:30 p.m.