Arizona State got started on its spring season with an impressive 57-15 defeat of Claremont Colleges in a January warmup for both teams.

In a hotly contested game, the Sun Devils never felt fully settled in, despite winning comfortably.

"Claremont Colleges has a lot of talent," said ASU head coach Gary Lane. "There was no single time we felt the game was under control."

ASU tested several combinations in the front row, back row and backline. Lane said he thinks this year's team has a stronger backline that last year's, when they challenged the upper echelon of the D1-A West Conference, but couldn't break into the playoffs.

"I think we've upgraded the backs this year," he said. "We also have more depth. This game about testing various combinations and with the depth we have, guys knew that when they came in, they had to perform."

Wing Erick Moon scored three tries, while former USA U20 lock Eric Rygiel led a solid forward effort, along with the efforts of flanker Xavier Torres.

Up next for the Sun Devils is Cal Feb. 6.