The Arizona State football team has successfully kept its hopes for the Big 12 Conference title alive with a nail-biting 28-23 victory against BYU on Saturday at Mountain America Stadium, where the atmosphere was electric with a full house in attendance.
With this win, Arizona State improved to 9-2 overall and 6-2 in the Big 12, while BYU shares an identical record. Notably, ASU now leads the all-time series against BYU with a 21-8 record, breaking BYU’s three-game winning streak in their matchups. This game also marked their inaugural clash as Big 12 rivals.
As the game drew to a close, BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff attempted a desperate Hail Mary pass that ultimately fell short, leading to jubilant celebrations among ASU supporters on the field. Earlier in the fourth quarter, BYU had shown resilience, narrowing ASU’s lead to just one score after a swift 88-yard drive concluded in a touchdown. However, ASU maintained control of the game, showcasing strong performances both offensively and defensively.
The Sun Devils had an impressive first half, leading 21-3 at halftime thanks to standout performances from running back Cam Skattebo and quarterback Sam Leavitt. Skattebo was a dominant force, finishing with three touchdowns. Both teams exchanged scores in the second half, but ASU managed to stay ahead.
In an exciting twist, Arizona State took strategic risks, including a successful surprise onside kick that displayed their tactical ingenuity. The decision to extend the contracts of offensive coordinator Marcus Arroyo and defensive coordinator Brian Ward signals ASU’s commitment to building a robust football program.
The victory not only keeps ASU’s title aspirations alive but also enhances the momentum built throughout the season, fostering hope for playoffs. Next weekend, the Sun Devils will wrap up their regular season against their rivals in the Territorial Cup, potentially capitalizing on the motivation from this victory.
In summary, Arizona State’s thrilling victory against BYU has solidified their spot in the Big 12 title race and further developed a strong team identity under coach Kenny Dillingham. The game has not only energized the fan base but also showcased the Sun Devils’ potential as they look to cap off their season on a high note.