In a thrilling display of football, the 12th-ranked Arizona State Sun Devils triumphed over No. 16 Iowa State with a commanding 45-19 victory in the 2024 Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship held in Arlington, Texas. The standout performance came from Cam Skattebo, who not only rushed for 170 yards and scored two touchdowns but also added a touchdown catch to his impressive stats. This marks a remarkable season for Arizona State, who, under the leadership of their 34-year-old head coach Kenny Dillingham, celebrated their first title in the Big 12 in their inaugural season.
The Sun Devils, now with an 11-2 record, are riding a wave of confidence with a six-game winning streak. Iowa State, on the other hand, despite their loss, celebrated their first 10-win season in the program’s 133-year history, showcasing a historic achievement for their team.
The game took a critical turn when Iowa State, trailing 24-10, struggled with turnovers in their own territory during the second half. Arizona State capitalized on these mistakes, with freshman quarterback Sam Leavitt throwing touchdown passes that further extended their lead.
Skattebo set the tone early with an electrifying 28-yard run on the first play. His two rushing touchdowns may have been short in yardage at 3 and 2 yards, but his assertive runs helped drive his team forward. Highlight-worthy moments included a dazzling 47-yard run where he spun away from defenders and darted through traffic, and a 53-yard rush just before halftime.
For Iowa State, quarterback Rocco Becht managed to maintain a streak by throwing a touchdown in his 17th consecutive game, including a brief lead after a 3-yard touchdown pass to Carson Hansen. Becht completed 21 of 35 passes for 214 yards and two touchdowns as the Cyclones aimed to catch up.
Arizona State showcased a powerful offense with six plays exceeding 20 yards in the first half, contrasting with Iowa State’s longest play of just 19 yards. This difference was apparent as the Sun Devils demonstrated their ability to make big plays, proving their dominance throughout the game.
Cam Skattebo was named the game’s Most Outstanding Player, solidifying his role as a pivotal asset for the Sun Devils. His record-setting season, with a total of 2,074 yards from scrimmage, further emphasizes his exceptional skills on the field.
As Arizona State prepares to take their momentum into the postseason, this victory serves not only as a testament to their hard work and determination but also sets a hopeful foundation for future success in the Big 12. The Sun Devils’ triumph reflects the potential for growth within their program as they build upon this victorious season.