ASU’s Demario Richard named to preseason watch list for Doak Walker Award

Arizona State sophomore running back Demario Richard has been named a preseason candidate for the Doak Walker Award, which is given to the nation’s top college running back.

Richard is one of 15 sophomores and 12 Pac-12 representatives on the list.

The Sun Devil running back racked up 487 rushing yards and averaged 5.7 yards per carry in 2014, both ranking second on the team. He also earned Sun Bowl MVP honors after scoring a career-high four touchdowns in the season-ending bowl win against Duke.

This is now the fifth consecutive season the Sun Devils have had a player nominated for the preseason Doak Walker award.

Cameron Marshall was a preseason candidate in 2011 and 2012, with Marion Grice making the list in 2013 and D.J. Foster earning the honor in 2013 and 2014.