On December 6, 2024, the Arizona State Sun Devils are set to take on the Iowa State Cyclones at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, for the Big 12 Championship. This is a big deal since it’s the first time these two teams have ever faced each other, and both have had impressive seasons. With a chance to secure an automatic spot in the College Football Playoff, this game is sure to be an exciting showdown.
Arizona State Sun Devils (10-2, 7-2 Big 12)
The Sun Devils have really turned things around this season, securing a place in the Big 12 Championship after being predicted to come in last in the preseason rankings. With head coach Kenny Dillingham, ASU has shown some serious grit and offensive skill. Their latest win against rival Arizona (49-7) highlighted their strength in controlling the game on both offense and defense.
Significant contributors for Arizona State are:
Sam Leavitt (QB): The Michigan State transfer has racked up 2,444 passing yards this season, tossing 21 touchdowns while keeping his interceptions to just five. His game management skills and making key plays will be super important.
Cam Skattebo (RB): Skattebo is a key player for ASU’s running game, racking up 1,398 rushing yards and scoring 17 touchdowns.
Jordyn Tyson (WR): Despite breaking his collarbone in the last game and being sidelined, Tyson still racked up more than 1,100 receiving yards and ten touchdowns this season.
Iowa State Cyclones (10-2, 7-2 Big 12)
Iowa State has had a great season, tying with Arizona State’s record. They kicked things off with a strong start that got them ranked pretty high nationally but hit a few bumps in the middle. However, they bounced back really well and clinched their spot in the championship.
Key players for Iowa State include:
Rocco Becht (QB): The redshirt sophomore has thrown for 2,884 yards and 18 touchdowns, plus he’s rushed for six more. His ability to attack both through the air and on the ground makes him a tough competitor.
Jayden Higgins (WR): Higgins has become Becht’s go-to guy, racking up 77 catches for 1,015 yards and eight touchdowns, making him a major player in the passing game.
Jaylin Noel (WR): Noel is another important target, catching up 61 receptions for 976 yards and five touchdowns, which really boosts Iowa State’s passing game.
Statistical Comparison
Both teams are pretty much neck and neck when it comes to stats, both scoring an average of 32.1 points per game. But Arizona State has the edge with a stronger rushing game, especially since Iowa State’s run defense is having a tough time, giving up about 176.4 rushing yards each game.
Game Strategy
Arizona State needs to make the most of their solid running game with Skattebo at the helm and find a way to handle Leavitt’s passing without Tyson. The Sun Devils will probably focus on controlling the clock and tiring out Iowa State’s defense.
Iowa State, on the other hand, will count on Becht to take advantage of ASU’s secondary while also working on a well-rounded offensive strategy. The Cyclones’ chances of winning could depend on their ability to make big plays with Higgins and Noel.
Considering how both teams have played this season and their similar stats, this game is likely to be a tight one. Still, Arizona State might have the upper hand thanks to their solid running game and the boost from their home crowd.
Sports Betting Ace’s Final Score Prediction: Arizona State Sun Devils 27 – Iowa State Cyclones 24
This score shows a tight match where both teams’ offenses are impressive, but in the end, ASU makes the most of its running game at key times to secure the championship title.