Arizona State fans celebrated a thrilling victory by storming the field twice, culminating a dramatic finish as the team defeated No. 14 BYU 28-23 at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, Arizona. Running back Cam Skattebo was a standout with an impressive performance, rushing for 147 yards and scoring three touchdowns, cementing his role in the Sun Devils’ recent success.
The game was tightly contested, especially in the final minutes. After an interception by Javan Robinson with just over a minute left, Arizona State’s offense struggled to close out the game. Miscommunication led to the student section prematurely rushing the field, believing victory was secure, only for the officials to reveal there was still one second on the clock. BYU was given one last chance to attempt a Hail Mary from their own 49-yard line, but the pass fell incomplete after a brief delay to clear the field.
Kenny Dillingham, Arizona State’s second-year head coach, expressed pride in his team, emphasizing that their hard work led to this victory. “We won the football game,” he said, highlighting the importance of the players’ efforts.
BYU’s coach Kalani Sitake, while acknowledging the disappointment, did not blame the officiating for the outcome and instead focused on the broader performance of the game. The loss dampened BYU’s College Football Playoff aspirations, leaving them with two consecutive defeats, while Arizona State has now won four straight games and is gaining momentum as they approach playoff discussions.
The game showcased a resilient Arizona State team that has shown remarkable improvement this season. Skattebo’s running power and the team’s offensive cohesion have been critical, as evidenced by their ability to control the game’s pace with a long scoring drive.
As the season progresses, Arizona State fans can hold on to the hope that their team continues to build on this momentum, potentially leading to a strong finish and a place in the College Football Playoff conversations. The excitement around the program reflects a shifting dynamic, as they look forward to achieving greater heights.
In summary, this game not only marked a significant victory for Arizona State but also showcased their growth as a competitive force in college football.