TEMPE, AZ — In a game that swung wildly from dominance to desperation, Arizona State secured a nail-biting 28-23 victory over BYU on Saturday at Mountain America Stadium. Powered by running back Cam Skattebo’s three-touchdown performance and a clutch defensive stand in the closing minutes, the Sun Devils held on to improve to 9-2 (6-2 Big-12), while BYU dropped to the same record.
First-Half Control by Arizona State
Arizona State opened the game with an air of authority, with Cam Skattebo finding the end zone on a 3-yard run in the first quarter and following up with two additional rushing touchdowns in the second. The Sun Devils’ offense, led by quarterback Sam Leavitt, orchestrated methodical drives, including a 95-yard march capped by Skattebo’s 4-yard score. The halftime score stood at 21-3, with BYU’s only response coming from Will Ferrin’s impressive 49-yard field goal just before the break.
BYU’s Resurgence
Trailing 21-3, BYU came alive in the third quarter. Jake Retzlaff led a spirited 96-yard drive, culminating in Keelan Marion’s 10-yard touchdown rush. But Arizona State quickly responded when Leavitt connected with Xavier Guillory for a 61-yard bomb, extending the lead to 28-9.
BYU refused to back down, however. Retzlaff found Jojo Phillips for a 21-yard touchdown late in the third quarter, and the Cougars added another score early in the fourth via Marion’s 1-yard rush. Despite two failed two-point conversions, the Cougars closed the gap to 28-23 with just under nine minutes remaining.
Late Drama
Arizona State’s offense stalled in the fourth quarter, giving BYU multiple opportunities to complete the comeback. The Sun Devils’ defense, however, rose to the occasion, intercepting Retzlaff twice in crucial moments to preserve the lead.
The Cougars’ final drive began with just over two minutes left, but the Sun Devils’ defensive pressure proved too much. Arizona State forced a turnover on downs, sealing the victory in front of a crowd of 55,400 fans.
Key Performances
Cam Skattebo (ASU): The workhorse back carried 28 times for 147 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 5.2 yards per carry and breaking multiple tackles throughout the game.
Jake Retzlaff (BYU): The Cougars’ quarterback threw for 297 yards and a touchdown on 22-of-38 passing but was undone by two costly interceptions.
Xavier Guillory (ASU): The wideout hauled in a 61-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter, showcasing his speed and playmaking ability.
Keelan Marion (BYU): Marion provided a spark for the Cougars with two rushing touchdowns, including a critical fourth-quarter score to keep the game close.
Turning Points
- First-Half Domination: Arizona State’s efficiency in the first half, including long drives and three touchdowns by Skattebo, put BYU on its heels.
- BYU’s Missed Opportunities: Despite their second-half resurgence, BYU’s two failed two-point conversions and late turnovers were pivotal in their inability to complete the comeback.
- Leavitt to Guillory: The 61-yard strike that stretched Arizona State’s lead to 28-9 ultimately provided enough cushion to withstand BYU’s rally.
Game Stats
- Total Offense: Arizona State 401 yards, BYU 391 yards.
- Third-Down Conversions: BYU 7-of-10, Arizona State 7-of-13.
- Turnovers: BYU 2, Arizona State 1.
- Time of Possession: Arizona State 35:05, BYU 24:55.
What’s Next?
The victory keeps Arizona State in contention for a strong finish in the Big12 standings, while BYU will look to regroup in its season finale. Both teams showed grit and determination, but Arizona State’s ability to close out the game on defense made the difference.
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