Arizona State Surges in Bowl Projections with Potential Playoff Spot

The Arizona State Sun Devils, once predicted to finish at the bottom of the Big 12 standings this season, have defied expectations and entered discussions for a College Football Playoff berth. Following a thrilling 28-23 win over BYU, ASU improved their record to 9-2 overall and 6-2 in conference play. Now tied with Iowa State, BYU, and Colorado atop the Big 12 standings, the Sun Devils are gaining recognition as one of the top teams in college football.

Several bowl projections suggest Arizona State could secure the No. 4 seed in the playoff, earning a valuable first-round bye. Both The Athletic and The Sporting News foresee ASU advancing to the Fiesta Bowl, where they would face the winner of a clash between No. 5 Oregon and No. 12 Boise State. The Fiesta Bowl, hosted at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, would offer a home-field advantage for ASU fans. Other outlets, including CBS Sports and USA TODAY, predict ASU will enter as the No. 12 seed, potentially facing powerhouse programs like Oregon or Ohio State in the opening round.

Arizona State’s remarkable turnaround under coach Kenny Dillingham has been fueled by standout performances, including running back Cam Skattebo’s three-touchdown display against BYU. ASU’s recent four-game win streak has not only elevated their playoff prospects but also positioned them as favorites in the Big 12 title race. However, to keep their playoff hopes alive, the Sun Devils must first overcome in-state rival Arizona in the Territorial Cup this weekend, a game that promises high stakes and intense rivalry.

Despite starting the season with modest expectations, ASU has capitalized on key victories and unexpected losses by other teams to climb into playoff contention. Their dramatic rise highlights the unpredictable nature of college football, where perseverance and timely wins can rewrite narratives. The next College Football Playoff rankings, set to be unveiled Tuesday, will shed further light on ASU’s position, as fans eagerly await the Sun Devils’ final push toward a historic postseason appearance.