Orange County Register

The timing couldn’t be worse for Everson Griffen, but it just might be perfect for Devon Kennard.

With one defensive end from Arizona (Griffen) nursing a toe injury, the other (Kennard) could be in line for major playing time in his hometown.

If Griffen can’t play at Arizona State on Saturday, Kennard is expected to split time with Malik Jackson. Kennard grew up in Phoenix, 10-15 minutes from the ASU campus.

“I’m very excited,” Kennard said. “I get to play in front of the home crowd. Not too many people get that kind of opportunity.

“It’s unfortunate for Everson. He’s having a great year. But I’m ready to step in and play that role and do what I have to do for the team and myself to make plays and make sure I contribute to a win. That’s what I plan to do Saturday, whether Everson plays or he doesn’t play.”

Kennard has tons of friends who play for the Sun Devils and used to attend their games as a recruit. But he wasn’t necessarily an ASU fan.

“I’ve always been a USC fan,” Kennard said. “The best team growing up. You’ve got to admire that.”

More from the USC blog:

• Poll: Is Carroll’s USC dynasty about to end?
• USC football: ‘Our mission is to score seven on every drive’
• USC football: Are Trojans still king of Pac-10?
• USC football: McCoy unlikely to play at ASU
• USC football: Debating the demise of the dynasty
• Reading between the hash marks: Rick Neuheisel
• USC football: Burfict would have been a perfect fit
• Video: Tim Floyd breaks up girl fight at casino
• USC football: Gable, Corp, O’Dowd stand out

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