Big XII CC Showdown
Article By: **Big XII Conference Championship Preview: Arizona State Sun Devils vs. Kansas Jayhawks**
The stage is set for a dramatic showdown in the Big XII Conference Championship as the Arizona State Sun Devils face off against the Kansas Jayhawks. Kansas, having won their previous encounter 38-21, is looking to repeat their success, while the Sun Devils are eager for redemption.
### **Season Recap**
#### **Arizona State Sun Devils**
- **Offense:**
- **Total Points:** 363 (7th in conference, 47th nationally)
- **Total Offense:** 4,108 yards (8th in conference, 60th nationally)
- **Rushing:** 1,188 yards (11th in conference, 80th nationally)
- **Passing:** 2,917 yards (5th in conference, 35th nationally)
- **First Downs:** 205 (9th in conference, 56th nationally)
- **Punt Returns:** 96 yards (8th in conference, 74th nationally)
- **Kick Returns:** 1,135 yards (1st in conference, 6th nationally)
- **Defense:**
- **Total Points Against:** 275 (3rd in conference, 39th nationally)
- **Total Offense Against:** 4,291 yards (11th in conference, 47th nationally)
- **Rushing Against:** 1,710 yards (14th in conference, 25th nationally)
- **Passing Against:** 2,575 yards (9th in conference, 72nd nationally)
- **First Downs Against:** 206 (11th in conference, 92nd nationally)
- **Punt Returns Against:** 165 yards (10th in conference, 101st nationally)
- **Kick Returns Against:** 408 yards (11th in conference, 70th nationally)
#### **Kansas Jayhawks**
- **Offense:**
- **Total Points:** 467 (2nd in conference, 11th nationally)
- **Total Offense:** 5,030 yards (2nd in conference, 13th nationally)
- **Rushing:** 2,250 yards (2nd in conference, 13th nationally)
- **Passing:** 2,780 yards (8th in conference, 49th nationally)
- **First Downs:** 230 (4th in conference, 24th nationally)
- **Punt Returns:** 92 yards (10th in conference, 78th nationally)
- **Kick Returns:** 488 yards (4th in conference, 51st nationally)
- **Defense:**
- **Total Points Against:** 208 (1st in conference, 14th nationally)
- **Total Offense Against:** 3,198 yards (2nd in conference, 109th nationally)
- **Rushing Against:** 856 yards (1st in conference, 123rd nationally)
- **Passing Against:** 2,342 yards (5th in conference, 49th nationally)
- **First Downs Against:** 153 (1st in conference, 23rd nationally)
- **Punt Returns Against:** 54 yards (4th in conference, 21st nationally)
- **Kick Returns Against:** 434 yards (12th in conference, 73rd nationally)
### **Previous Matchup Recap**
In their earlier season clash, Kansas secured a convincing 38-21 victory over Arizona State. Here’s a snapshot of the key statistics from that game:
- **Total Offense:** Kansas accumulated 441 yards compared to Arizona State’s 325.
- **Rushing:** Kansas dominated with 148 rushing yards, while Arizona State was limited to 78.
- **Passing:** Kansas excelled in the air with 293 passing yards, whereas Arizona State totaled 247.
- **First Downs:** Arizona State had a slight edge with 19 first downs over Kansas’s 18.
- **Turnovers:** Kansas capitalized on Arizona State’s turnovers, forcing 3 turnovers (1 fumble, 2 interceptions) while committing just 1 turnover.
- **Red Zone Efficiency:** Kansas was efficient, scoring on all 4 of their red zone trips (3 touchdowns, 1 field goal), while Arizona State managed only 2 touchdowns in their red zone appearances.
### **Key Factors for the Championship Game**
#### **Kansas Jayhawks**
1. **Offensive Balance:** Kansas’s ability to balance their high-powered rushing attack (2,250 yards, 2nd in the conference) with their passing game (2,780 yards, 8th in the conference) will be crucial. They need to continue exploiting both facets to keep Arizona State’s defense guessing.
2. **Defensive Dominance:** The Jayhawks boast the top-ranked defense in the conference, allowing just 208 points this season. Their ability to limit both rushing (856 yards allowed, 1st in the conference) and passing yards (2,342 yards allowed, 5th in the conference) will be key in stifling the Sun Devils’ offense.
3. **Turnover Battle:** Kansas’s success in forcing turnovers (3 in the previous game) and capitalizing on them will be crucial. Maintaining this trend can give them a significant advantage.
#### **Arizona State Sun Devils**
1. **Offensive Adjustments:** Arizona State must improve their running game (1,188 yards, 11th in the conference) and pass protection to keep pace with Kansas. Enhancing their offensive line play and establishing a more balanced attack will be vital.
2. **Defensive Improvements:** The Sun Devils’ defense, which allowed 275 points this season (3rd in the conference), must address its vulnerabilities, particularly in stopping the run and defending against balanced offenses.
3. **Turnover Prevention:** Arizona State must focus on ball security to avoid the costly turnovers that plagued them in their previous matchup with Kansas.
### **Conclusion**
The Big XII Championship promises to be a compelling clash. Kansas enters the game as the favorites, armed with a potent offense and a formidable defense. However, Arizona State, fueled by the desire for redemption, will aim to leverage their strengths and rectify past mistakes.
Expect a high-intensity game with both teams making strategic adjustments. Kansas will look to continue their successful formula, while Arizona State will strive to overcome their earlier challenges and claim the Big XII title. The matchup is set to deliver an exciting conclusion to the season.
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