Arizona State University (ASU) will take on the University of Colorado (CU) in what promises to be an intriguing matchup this Saturday at 6 p.m. on Folsom Field. The Sun Devils head into the game with a record of 7-3 and 5-2 in the Big 12, while the Buffaloes sit at 3-7 and 1-6 in the same conference. Fans can catch the action on ESPN2 or tune into 850 KOA radio.
The betting line is set at CU +7, with the over/under at 48.5, and the weather is expected to be clear with temperatures around 37 degrees.
This matchup features several compelling storylines. For starters, CU freshman quarterback Julian Lewis will be making his second start after showing promise in his debut despite a loss to West Virginia two weeks ago, where he completed 22 of 35 passes for 299 yards and two touchdowns. In contrast, ASU will field experienced dual-threat quarterback Jeff Sims, who has stepped in as the starter due to Sam Leavitt’s injury. With Sims leading the team, the Sun Devils have found success with a 2-1 record that includes tight victories over Iowa State and West Virginia. However, Sims’ last visit to Boulder in 2023 resulted in a tough loss for him, where he recorded three turnovers as the starting quarterback for Nebraska.
Another notable player to watch is ASU’s wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, who could make a significant impact upon returning from a hamstring injury. Tyson, who began his career at CU, had a solid freshman season but departed Boulder after Coach Deion Sanders joined the program. Motivated to prove himself against his former team, Tyson’s performance could be a key factor in the game if he is fully fit.
On the ground, CU has struggled this season, ranking near the bottom of the conference with just 122.1 rushing yards per game. In contrast, ASU boasts a solid run defense, allowing only 117.7 rushing yards per game. The Buffaloes have yet to see a running back surpass 70 yards in a game this year, and their recent performance produced a dismal 1.3 yards per carry against West Virginia. This one-dimensional offensive approach places additional pressure on Lewis to deliver against a formidable Sun Devil defense.
Predictions ahead of the matchup vary among analysts. Sportswriter Kyle Newman believes that ASU will edge out CU with a score of 31-24 due to the Buffs’ physical limitations and their struggles against running quarterbacks. Columnist Sean Keeler also predicts a win for ASU, but with a score of 27-21, citing the challenges both teams face. Meanwhile, sports editor Matt Schubert sees a potential upset for CU, forecasting a close 27-24 victory, attributing this to the altitude and conditions playing to the home team’s advantage.
As the game approaches, both teams will be eager to showcase their strengths and learn from past performances. For CU, this matchup presents an opportunity to change their season’s narrative and finish on a high note, while ASU aims to remain competitive for the Big 12 title. Fans can expect a gripping contest as these two teams clash in a pivotal late-season showdown.