Fields makes mark with Sun Devils

Tim Graham

Thursday, Oct. 22, 1998 | 10:40 a.m.

TEMPE, Ariz. -- Once the game is over, Eric Fields has no problem looking at himself in the mirror.

The Arizona State outside linebacker has played well enough as a redshirt freshman to be proud. But when Fields gazes at himself, he doesn't stop at introspection.

It's common knowledge around the Sun Devil locker room that Fields, a Western High graduate, practices giving interviews in the mirror.

Ask him about it and he won't lie, although he will admit a bit of embarrassment that outsiders know.

"A lot of times you see athletes on TV," Fields said, 'and they say 'uh ... ummm ... duh.' I just want to make sure when I'm in that situation I don't get dumbfounded or say something I really didn't mean."

If Fields continues to shine like he has this year, he won't have to practice interviewing anymore. It soon could become second nature. He already is sought by the Phoenix-area media because of his play.

Fields has recorded 24 tackles, including eight for losses totalling 36 yards. He has a sack, a fumble recovery and a forced fumble.

"He plays with a lot of enthusiasm, which we hope carries over to the rest of the team," ASU linebackers coach Johnny Barr said. "He brings excitement and speed and aggressiveness. He loves to play and it's obvious on the field."

Barr said Fields has "All-American characteristics."

Fields, originally slated to be a key backup this year, got his shot when projected starter Stephen Trejo got hurt. Fields played so well in his place, Trejo was moved to another position.

"He's made his impact this year," Barr said.

Fields has a reputation among his teammates as being ultra-confident. But he can be humble in describing himself.

"I'm not a speedster. I'm not the biggest. I'm not the strongest," he said. "I just bring a lot of life to the game. I'm going to come into the huddle with a smile. I'm going to get my boys riled up.

"That's the type of ball we played at Western. We were always in it to win it."

Fields credits his Western position coach, Calvin January, for his rapid collegiate assent.

"Coach January was always a stickler about my feet and having good technique," Fields said. "That helped me a lot. It helped me to learn faster. It made me a coachable player."