The Arizona State Sun Devils stunned the college football world with a commanding 45-19 victory over the Iowa State Cyclones to secure the Big 12 Championship in their debut season in the conference. Led by a dominant performance from running back Cam Skattebo, the Sun Devils showcased their offensive firepower and defensive tenacity, solidifying their spot in the College Football Playoff.
Skattebo was the undeniable star of the game, amassing 170 rushing yards, two rushing touchdowns, and a receiving score. From the very first play, a 28-yard run, Skattebo set the tone with his physicality and ability to evade defenders. His performance broke tackles and records alike, as he surpassed 2,000 yards from scrimmage for the season—a single-season school record.
Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham, in just his second season and the youngest head coach in the FBS at 34, led the Sun Devils to their first outright conference championship since 1996. This marks a dramatic turnaround for a program that was predicted to finish last in the Big 12 after a 3-9 campaign last year.
Arizona State wasted no time asserting its dominance. Skattebo’s early runs and quarterback Sam Leavitt’s precise passing kept the Cyclones’ defense off balance. A key fourth-down conversion saw Leavitt connect with Melquan Stovall for a 63-yard gain, setting up Arizona State’s first touchdown. Skattebo added another score late in the half with a 53-yard run that showcased his ability to elude defenders and break through tackles.
The Cyclones managed to stay competitive early, with quarterback Rocco Becht leading an opening drive capped by a touchdown pass to Carson Hansen. However, Arizona State’s defense tightened as the game progressed, forcing Iowa State to settle for a field goal on another red zone trip.
By halftime, the Sun Devils led 24-10, with their offense racking up over 300 total yards while holding the Cyclones to under 200.
The third quarter proved disastrous for Iowa State. Three consecutive turnovers in their own territory—two fumbles and an interception—gave Arizona State prime field position. The Sun Devils capitalized each time, with Leavitt throwing three touchdown passes, including two to Xavier Guillory and one to Skattebo. These scores extended the lead to 45-10, effectively putting the game out of reach.
Defensive back Keith Abney II made a crucial interception for Arizona State, which further highlighted the team’s ability to capitalize on Iowa State’s mistakes. The Cyclones’ inability to protect the ball proved to be their undoing, as their promising season ended in disappointment.
The victory cements Arizona State’s place in the College Football Playoff. With an 11-2 record and a six-game winning streak, the Sun Devils are riding high. While debates continue over whether they deserve a first-round bye, their dominance in the Big 12 Championship strengthens their case.
Skattebo, who punctuated his touchdowns with Heisman Trophy poses, made his case for a trip to New York as a finalist. “I’ve been disrespected my whole life,” Skattebo said after the game. “I’m the best running back in the country, and I’m going to keep proving it.”
Arizona State’s journey from underdog to champion has been nothing short of extraordinary. With their first College Football Playoff appearance on the horizon, the Sun Devils are poised to make even more waves on college football’s biggest stage.
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Image is in the public domain, sourced from Arizona State University Athletics.
