Arizona State University (ASU) football’s hopes for an upset in Salt Lake City came to an end on Saturday night as they lost to the Utah Utes, 31-21, at Rice-Eccles Stadium. The game was close throughout, but a big difference was a turnover at the begging of the game for ASU. The Sun Devils failed to run the option play and fumbled the ball, and it was returned for a touchdown. That would make the score 14-7 at the end of the first quarter in favor of the Utes. Both teams would score in the second quarter and the score at half would be 21-14 in favor of Utah.
The third quarter is where Utah gained some separation in scoring 10 points to go up 31-14. ASU was determined to try and make it a game again. Sims dropped back and hit Guillory for a 65-yard touchdown strike to bring it to 31-21. The Sun Devils had life but that was quickly put out as Utah controlled the ball for the rest of the game. The bright spot for ASU was RB Cam Skattebo had 151 yards rushing on 24 attempts scoring 2 of the Sun Devils touchdowns.
With their postseason hopes dimming, Arizona State now faces a difficult road ahead. Head coach priest19’s rebuilding project hit another setback in this loss, as the Sun Devils continue to struggle with consistency, particularly on offense.
Salt Lake City, UT (AP) - The Utah Utes outlasted the Arizona State Sun Devils 31-21 in a decisive matchup that showcased both strong offensive execution and stifling defense. Quarterback Cameron Rising led Utah’s passing attack, completing 13 of 23 passes for 207 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Rising’s primary target was Money Parks, who caught 3 passes for 63 yards, while Dijon Stanley added 2 catches for 36 yards, including a long 25-yard reception. The Utes also had a strong ground game, with Micah Bernard rushing for 74 yards on 16 carries, scoring two touchdowns, and Dijon Stanley contributing 62 yards on 12 carries.
On defense, Utah was led by linebacker Tao Johnson, who tallied 12 total tackles. Junior Tafuna was disruptive, recording 6 tackles and 2 tackles for loss, including a sack. The Utes were opportunistic, forcing 2 interceptions—one by Elijah Davis, who also recovered a fumble—and adding a pair of pass breakups. Despite Arizona State's efforts, Utah’s defense limited the Sun Devils to just 308 total yards, with standout performances from the defensive line and secondary ensuring Arizona State could not capitalize on their opportunities.
Utah controlled the clock, holding the ball for 14:56 compared to Arizona State’s 13:04, and the Utes were especially effective in the red zone, scoring on both of their attempts. Arizona State, meanwhile, struggled with just 1 conversion on 7 third-down attempts, while Utah went a perfect 4-for-7 on third downs. Despite Arizona State's strong start, they couldn't find their rhythm in the second half and were ultimately undone by turnovers. The Utes wrapped up the win with a clean 1-for-1 performance on field goals and 4-for-4 on extra points, securing a comfortable 31-21 victory.
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