How one Sun Devil star turns bare feet on grass into his ultimate advantage
Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson has earned plenty of headlines for his explosive plays. But before the lights, before the roar of 57,000 fans, Tyson prepares in a way few expect, he takes off his cleats and walks barefoot across the field. It’s a ritual he calls “earthing,” and he believes it gives him balance, focus, and strength.
For Tyson, it isn’t superstition. It’s science and soul. He says the feel of the grass calms his mind and eases the stress on his knees and ankles. During the record-breaking heat of Phoenix summers, he carved out quiet moments before practice to sink his feet into the turf. That habit has carried into game day, helping him clear away noise and pressure.
The connection goes back to childhood. Tyson remembers running barefoot with his brother, rolling in grass during backyard football games. Those memories now fuel his pregame reset, reminding him why he plays.
Faith also drives his practice. Tyson points to the morning dew on the grass as a reflection of God’s presence. He sees his barefoot walk as both prayer and preparation.
As Arizona State chases another postseason run, Tyson’s ritual remains the foundation. While others rely on music or meditation, he leans on the earth beneath him. For him, success starts with a simple step, barefoot and grounded.
MORE COLLEGE FOOTBALL NEWS:
- Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
- Nick Saban on Browns' Derrick Henry diss: Try 'tackling his ass every day'
- LSU lands top 2027 blue-chip QB Peyton Houston
- The hard truth about Arch Manning's injury situation
- Why Shedeur Sanders told NFL teams not to draft him