In an exciting conclusion to the NCAA college football regular season, Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo celebrated a touchdown during a game against Arizona on Saturday, November 30, 2024. The victory marked a significant moment for Arizona State, which solidified its position in the Big 12 Championship.
This year has been particularly momentous for BYU, as it has been 15 years since they found themselves in the thick of a conference race so late in the season. Despite their spirited effort, the Cougars’ aspirations for the Big 12 title were curtailed after two consecutive losses, making them reliant on outcomes beyond their control.
Enter Must-Win Scenarios: On the last weekend of the regular season, nine teams were competing for a chance to compete in the Big 12 championship game. However, BYU’s chances took a hit, particularly following their opponent, Iowa State’s, 29-21 victory over Kansas State, which ultimately dashed BYU’s dreams. In this competitive landscape, Iowa State clinched the second and final spot in the championship, set to face Arizona State at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on December 7.
Arizona State not only secured the first spot in the championship but also marked its successful completion of the season with a commendable 7-2 conference record and a 10-2 overall performance—positioning them as the highest-ranked Big 12 team in the College Football Playoff rankings at No. 16.
The weekend saw several teams getting eliminated from contention, with BYU, Iowa State, and Colorado among them, due to various outcomes. Notably, the Cougars had their hopes dashed when they lost the tiebreaker scenarios against both Arizona State and Iowa State, marking the end of their championship aspirations.
Overall, while this season’s conclusion may be bittersweet for BYU, there remains a bright spot for Arizona State and Iowa State as they prepare for an exciting championship game, showcasing the competitive spirit of college football.
As fans gear up for the championship clash, the developments serve to remind everyone of the unpredictability and thrill that the sport promises, laying down the groundwork for what could be an exhilarating postseason.