In a stunning display of athletic prowess, the 12th-ranked Arizona State Sun Devils clinched the 2024 Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship by defeating No. 16 Iowa State with a score of 45-19. Cam Skattebo was the standout performer for Arizona State, showcasing his versatility by rushing for 170 yards, scoring two touchdowns on the ground, and adding another through the air with a touchdown catch.
Under the guidance of 34-year-old head coach Kenny Dillingham, the Sun Devils celebrated their first championship title in the Big 12, finishing the season with an impressive record of 11-2 and a six-game winning streak. This victory marked a historic achievement for the program in their inaugural Big 12 season.
Iowa State, despite falling behind and facing a challenging second half after leading 7-3 at one point, can still celebrate their milestone season with a 10-win record, the first in the program’s long history. Their momentum was disrupted by turnovers early in the second half, allowing Arizona State to capitalize and extend their lead significantly.
A highlight for the Sun Devils included impressive plays from Skattebo, who not only registered a 28-yard run on the game’s opening drive but also managed to shake off multiple defenders for significant yardage gains. Also notable was freshman quarterback Sam Leavitt, who threw for three touchdowns and completed 12 of 17 passes for 219 yards.
Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht continued his strong performance streak, throwing a touchdown in his 17th consecutive game, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the onslaught from Arizona State’s defense and explosive offense.
Skattebo was named the Most Outstanding Player of the game, reinforcing his remarkable performance throughout the season, where he set a single-season school record with 2,074 total yards from scrimmage.
This championship win not only solidifies Arizona State’s reputation in its new conference but also sets a positive tone for the future. The Sun Devils have proven their ability to compete at a high level and can build on this success in upcoming seasons. The team has shown resilience and depth, hinting at a bright future ahead in the college football landscape.