In an impressive display of athleticism, Cam Skattebo led 12th-ranked Arizona State to a convincing 45-19 victory over No. 16 Iowa State in the 2024 Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship. Skattebo showcased his talents by rushing for 170 yards, scoring two touchdowns on the ground, and catching a touchdown pass. The Sun Devils, now boasting an 11-2 record, have made a remarkable impact in their inaugural season in the Big 12 under the guidance of 34-year-old head coach Kenny Dillingham. They’ve now won six consecutive games.
Iowa State, finishing with a commendable 10-3 record, experienced a historic season, marking the first time in the program’s 133-year history that they achieved a 10-win record. However, their championship hopes diminished as they fell behind 24-10 and suffered multiple turnovers at crucial moments in the second half. Arizona State’s freshman quarterback Sam Leavitt capitalized on these opportunities, throwing touchdowns to seize control of the game.
Skattebo’s early impact was evident when he executed a 28-yard run on the first play of the game. His two rushing touchdowns, though short in yardage at 3 and 2 yards, were set up by his explosive running style throughout the game. His season totals now stand at a school-record 2,074 yards from scrimmage, which includes 1,568 rushing yards and 506 receiving yards.
In contrast, Rocco Becht of Iowa State managed to maintain his streak of throwing a touchdown in every game this season, with a total of 214 passing yards and two touchdowns. Despite a promising start, which saw them leading 7-3 early on, Iowa State struggled to keep pace with Arizona State’s offensive momentum.
The game highlighted Arizona State’s ability to make significant plays, even in the absence of their top receiver, Jordyn Tyson. The Sun Devils executed six plays exceeding 20 yards in the first half, while Iowa State’s longest play was merely 19 yards. This dominance both offensively and defensively was pivotal in the outcome of the game.
Cam Skattebo’s extraordinary performance earned him the title of Most Outstanding Player, cementing his status as a key player in the Sun Devils’ remarkable journey through the championship.
This victory not only signifies a successful transition for Arizona State into the Big 12 but also underscores the team’s potential for future success, suggesting that their upward trajectory in college football could continue in the coming seasons.