ATLANTA, GA – The Arizona State Sun Devils’ magical season came to a dramatic close in Atlanta, Georgia, as the Texas Longhorns outlasted them 39-31 in a double-overtime Peach Bowl classic. Though the Sun Devils fell just short, the team showcased heart, resilience, and star power in a game that lived up to its College Football Playoff billing.
A Game for the Ages
Trailing 17-3 at halftime, Arizona State stormed back in the second half behind standout performances from running back Cam Skattebo and quarterback Sam Leavitt. The Sun Devils’ offense exploded for 21 points in the second half, knotting the game at 24-24 and forcing overtime.
In the first extra period, Arizona State seized their first lead when Skattebo powered into the end zone from three yards out. However, Texas responded with a clutch fourth-and-13 touchdown pass from Quinn Ewers to Matthew Golden, keeping the Longhorns alive.
Texas struck again in the second overtime, as Ewers connected with Gunnar Helm on a 25-yard touchdown. After a successful two-point conversion, Arizona State needed to answer but fell short when Andrew Mukuba intercepted Leavitt’s final pass, sealing the victory for Texas.
Cam Skattebo: A Performance for the Record Books
Cam Skattebo delivered one of the most dynamic performances in recent football history. The Offensive MVP tallied 143 rushing yards, 99 receiving yards, two rushing touchdowns, and even threw a 42-yard touchdown pass. His total of 284 yards accounted for 56% of Arizona State’s offense, and he became the only player in the 21st century across FBS, FCS, and NFL games to record 100+ rushing yards, 75+ receiving yards, a passing touchdown, and a two-point conversion in the same game.
“This team never stopped fighting, and I just wanted to give everything I had out there,” Skattebo said after the game. “We came up short, but I’m proud of the effort we put into this season.”
A Controversial Turning Point
The game wasn’t without its controversy. In the fourth quarter, Texas safety Michael Taaffe delivered a jarring hit to Arizona State wide receiver Melquan Stovall. Officials reviewed the play for targeting but ruled no foul, a decision that drew ire from fans and Sun Devil supporters. Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark later called for improved officiating in high-stakes games, stating, “Calls like these should not define outcomes in games of this magnitude.”
Building for a Bright Future
Arizona State’s 2024 campaign may have ended in heartbreak, but the future looks exceptionally bright for the Sun Devils. Remarkably, all eligible starters have confirmed their return for the 2025 season, giving head coach Kenny Dillingham and his staff a strong foundation for another deep postseason run.
Among the returning players is quarterback Sam Leavitt, whose dynamic arm and leadership proved critical during ASU’s surprising rise this season. Leavitt’s 2,885 passing yards and 24 touchdowns position him as one of the top signal-callers in the Big 12. Joining him is standout wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, who electrified fans with 1,101 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in 2024.
On the defensive side, safety Xavion Alford leads a unit that held opponents to just 19.5 points per game. Alford, who allowed only eight receptions all season, will anchor a defense poised for further dominance.
Although the team will face challenges—such as replacing Offensive MVP Cam Skattebo, who is bound for the NFL—the overall continuity and returning experience set ASU up for another successful season. With Leavitt at the helm and Dillingham’s vision driving the program, the Sun Devils aren’t just rebuilding; they’re reloading for another championship run.
Arizona State proved in 2024 that they belong in college football’s elite tier. The foundation is laid, the core is intact, and the future is as promising as ever. Sun Devil Nation can expect 2025 to bring more unforgettable moments and another thrilling chase for greatness.
