Arizona State football delivered a thrilling performance in the Peach Bowl on Wednesday, nearly pulling off an improbable fourth-quarter comeback. However, the Sun Devils fell short in double overtime, losing to Texas 39-31 in an instant classic that dashed their College Football Playoff semifinal hopes.
Skattebo Steals the Spotlight
In a game that will long be remembered, ASU running back Cam Skattebo showcased his versatility and determination, leading the Sun Devils’ rally from a 24-8 deficit late in the fourth quarter. Battling exhaustion and illness—reportedly vomiting on the sidelines—Skattebo accounted for 56% of ASU’s total offense, finishing with:
- 30 carries for 143 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
- 8 catches for 88 receiving yards.
- 1 touchdown pass, a 42-yard bomb to receiver Malik McClain.
Skattebo’s efforts set multiple records:
- He became the first player in College Football Playoff history to record 100+ rushing yards and 80+ receiving yards in a single game.
- He set ASU’s single-season rushing record with 1,711 yards, surpassing Eno Benjamin’s 2018 mark.
- He now holds ASU’s single-season rushing touchdown record with 21 scores.
Late-Game Heroics
The Sun Devils mounted their comeback behind Skattebo’s all-around dominance:
- As a passer: On a critical fourth-and-two, Skattebo threw a 42-yard touchdown pass to McClain, cutting Texas’ lead to 24-14.
- As a receiver: On the next drive, Skattebo hauled in a 62-yard bomb from quarterback Sam Leavitt, setting up his own two-yard rushing touchdown.
- As a rusher: In the first overtime, Skattebo broke through the defense for a three-yard touchdown run, giving ASU a brief lead.
Double-Overtime Heartbreak
Texas responded with a 28-yard touchdown on fourth-and-13 to tie the game in the first overtime. In the second, Texas scored on their opening possession and converted the two-point attempt. ASU’s final drive ended in heartbreak when Leavitt’s pass was intercepted, sealing the Longhorns’ victory.
Missed Opportunities and Controversy
ASU’s special teams and red-zone struggles plagued the first half, leaving the Sun Devils trailing 17-3. A controversial non-call for targeting on receiver Melquan Stovall late in regulation added to the drama, forcing ASU to punt and giving Texas a chance to win with a field goal. Texas kicker Bert Auburn missed two fourth-quarter attempts, including a potential game-winner off the upright.
Looking Ahead
Despite the loss, ASU fans have reason to celebrate. Hours before the game, head coach Kenny Dillingham received a five-year contract extension, ensuring stability for a program that saw an eight-win turnaround this season. With many top players committed to returning, the future looks bright for Sun Devil football.
Rio Linda locals can appreciate the grit and heart ASU displayed—qualities that resonate deeply in our community. For Skattebo and the Sun Devils, this season may have ended in heartbreak, but the foundation for greatness is stronger than ever.
Gallery photos by Samantha Chow/Arizona State University
Cover photo via @sundevilfootball on twitter
