Arizona State defies odds as nearly two-touchdown underdog in Peach Bowl

In a dramatic College Football Playoff Peach Bowl held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, on January 1, 2025, the Texas Longhorns managed to secure a narrow victory over the Arizona State Sun Devils with a final score of 39-31 after double overtime. The game was particularly gripping as it showcased a series of dramatic swings, especially in the fourth quarter. Texas entered with a comfortable lead of 24-8 but saw the Sun Devils stage a remarkable comeback. After a series of events that included missed field goals by Texas and a touchdown by Arizona State, the game ultimately headed into overtime tied at 24-24, marking a relentless effort from both teams. The contest turned particularly intense during the overtime periods wherein Quinn Ewers of Texas made a crucial 28-yard touchdown pass to Matthew Golden on fourth-and-13, forcing the game into a second overtime. Arizona State took the lead in the first overtime with a touchdown run, but Texas quickly countered, showing resilience and offensive prowess. The final dramatic moment of the game came when Texas defender Andrew Mukuba intercepted a pass from Arizona State's Sam Leavitt, officially ending the contest and securing Texas’s victory. Despite the loss, Arizona State's performance throughout the game was commendable, overcoming substantial setbacks including twice stopping on crucial fourth downs and missing opportunities for points earlier in the match. Arizona State dominated the statistics for much of the game, holding a significant advantage with 510 total yards against Texas's 375, and maintaining possession much longer than Texas. This performance was significant for Arizona State, marking a potential turning point for their football program. Coached by Kenny Dillingham, the Sun Devils had been attempting to rise from a long history of mediocrity, aiming to establish a reputation as a contender in college football. Skattebo, a standout running back for Arizona State, showcased his skills throughout the season and played a pivotal role in their offensive strategies. With this game, both teams had shown determination and fighting spirit, but it was Texas that emerged victorious, reflecting the resilience described by their coach, Steve Sarkisian, during post-game comments. Moving forward, the experience gained from this high-stakes match could prove crucial for both teams as they navigate their paths in upcoming seasons.