ATLANTA – Arizona State University (ASU) faced off against the Texas Longhorns on January 1, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, marking their first-ever appearance in the College Football Playoff. The Sun Devils put up a fierce fight but were edged out by the Longhorns, losing 39-31 after double overtime, finishing their remarkable season on a bittersweet note.
After trailing 24-8 late in the third quarter, ASU staged an impressive comeback, showcasing resilience and grit rarely seen at this level. The game began uncertainly for the Sun Devils, as Texas quickly capitalized on their opportunities, with junior quarterback Quinn Ewers throwing multiple touchdowns and leading his team with authority throughout the early phases of the contest.
“Yeah, that's one of the best teams in the country, if not the best team we faced today,” stated ASU head coach Kenny Dillingham during the postgame press conference, embodying the team’s spirit and acknowledging the strength of their opponent. Dillingham’s gratitude for his players’ effort was palpable. “I hate to lose more than anybody,” he continued. “But now, where these guys have come is an incredible testimony to the team.”
At the heart of ASU's offensive effort was senior running back Cam Skattebo who played heroically, rushing for 144 yards on 30 carries, scoring two touchdowns, and providing 243 all-purpose yards. Skattebo also remarkably threw for a touchdown, demonstrating his versatility and importance to the team during this pivotal matchup. “He’s a special player and it’s just Cam,” Dillingham praised Skattebo, adding, “When you give him the ball, crazy things will happen.”
ASU's road to the Peach Bowl was not without its challenges. Transitioning to the Big 12 Conference after 46 years with the Pac-12, many expected the Sun Devils to struggle. Instead, they defied those expectations, winning the Big 12 Championship with tenacity and skill, making their victory spirit clear throughout the season.
Upon winning the coin toss, ASU initially took the lead with a 3-point field goal, but Texas responded harshly, forcing the Sun Devils to play catch-up after taking control with quick scores. Texas's dominance continued with Ewers connecting with his wide receivers efficiently and even forcing ASU's defense to bend but not break on several occasions.
Momentum began to shift when ASU's defense managed to record important stops, leading to scoring opportunities which they needed to capitalize on as the game progressed. Dillingham shown as he rolled out clever play-calling maneuvers, including successful fourth-down conversions and trick plays, turning the tide ever so slightly to the Sun Devils’ favor.
The game saw its high-energy turning point when ASU executed a trick play, with Skattebo throwing a 42-yard touchdown pass to Malik McClain. This sparked renewed optimism for the Sun Devils as the crowd became increasingly lively with each passing moment. A successful two-point conversion tightened the gap to 24-16, lending belief to the underdogs.
When Ewers threw his first interception on his own 21-yard line, ASU seized the opportunity. Redshirt freshman quarterback Sam Leavitt found Skattebo for another pivotal play, resulting soon after in another touchdown, leveling the score at 24-24 as time was winding down. Texas had some last-minute opportunities to seal the game, but missed field goals resulted in the game heading to overtime.
ASU took the lead when Skattebo scored again, seemingly poised for victory. Texas, undeterred, retaliated with their own touchdown after converting on 4th-and-13, forcing the match to double overtime.
Texas took the lead again, capturing the double overtime with another touchdown pass from Ewers, which left ASU with one last chance. Unfortunately for the Sun Devils, hope quickly vanished as Leavitt's pass was intercepted by Texas, sealing the heartbreaking defeat.
Despite the loss, the achievements of the season remain steeped with significance for ASU players and fans alike, symbolizing hope and heralding brighter futures for the program. “Undeniable,” Skattebo reflected on their year. “We gave everything we had as you saw in the game, we never stopped.”
This reflects ASU’s steadfast determination and reinforces the narrative of redemption reminiscent of past glories. The heartbreak of the Peach Bowl won't overshadow the bright potential seen for the Sun Devils, as they prepare to take on the challenges and opportunities of future seasons with renewed ferocity.
With the conclusion of the game, Texas moves on to the Cotton Bowl, set to face the Ohio State Buckeyes. Meanwhile, ASU, finishing 11-3 for the season, established their place and worth on both local and national stages. This experience, along with future aspirations for postseason play, suggests the Sun Devils may not be far from competing for titles again.