ARLINGTON, TX — In a stunning turn of events, Arizona State University’s football team has defied all expectations to become the Big 12 champions in their inaugural season in the league.
The Sun Devils delivered a commanding 45-19 victory over Iowa State at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, capping a remarkable season that saw them rise from being preseason underdogs to conference champions.
Skattebo Shines in Title Game
ASU’s Cam Skattebo was unstoppable, racking up 170 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He added a receiving touchdown to his stellar performance, making him the driving force behind the Sun Devils’ offense.
Despite Iowa State’s early 7-3 lead, fueled by quarterback Rocco Becht’s 3-yard touchdown pass to Carson Hansen, the Cyclones couldn’t maintain momentum. Their typically explosive receivers, Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, were held in check until the game was well out of reach. Higgins finished with 115 receiving yards, while Noel added 64 yards and a late touchdown.
A Historic Season for ASU
Arizona State’s victory not only secured their first Big 12 title but also highlighted a season full of accolades:
- Head Coach Kenny Dillingham was named Big 12 Coach of the Year in his second season.
- Quarterback Sam Leavitt earned Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors.
- Receiver Jordyn Tyson was crowned Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year.
“This has been a season of proving doubters wrong,” Dillingham said after the game. “Our players stepped up, our coaches delivered, and we’ve shown what Sun Devil football is all about.”
What’s Next for the Sun Devils?
With the Big 12 championship secured, Arizona State now awaits their fate in the College Football Playoff. The selection committee’s decision will be announced during the selection show on Sunday at 10 a.m. Arizona time, where ASU hopes to punch their ticket to the national semifinals.