Arizona Dominates Arizona State, Halting Big 12 Title Hopes

In a decisive showdown on November 24, 2023, the Arizona Wildcats defeated the Arizona State Sun Devils with a commanding score of 23-7, effectively ending their rival’s hopes of returning to the Big 12 Championship game. Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita threw for 286 yards and one touchdown, while the Wildcats’ defense forced five turnovers, marking a significant achievement in what has been a remarkable turnaround season.

Arizona State, the reigning Big 12 champions, entered the game with a 8-4 record, hoping to build on last year’s success. However, the Wildcats, now with a 9-3 overall record, displayed a level of dominance that left the Sun Devils struggling. “I’m so proud of this Arizona football team,” said Brent Brennan, Arizona’s head coach. “Nobody thought they could. Check us out now.”

The Sun Devils, ranked No. 20 in the College Football Playoff rankings, faced significant challenges throughout the game. Quarterback Jeff Sims, making his fourth start in place of the injured Sam Leavitt, struggled, throwing three interceptions and losing two fumbles. His performance peaked with a botched handoff early in the third quarter that led to a critical touchdown pass from Fifita to Cameron Barmore, increasing Arizona’s lead.

Arizona’s defense was relentless, holding Arizona State to just 214 total yards and limiting their offensive opportunities. The Wildcats’ defensive efforts were complemented by a consistent performance from kicker Michael Salgado-Medina, who successfully converted two of three field goals in the second half after an initially rocky start.

As the game progressed, Arizona’s momentum surged. Following a 1-yard touchdown run by Kedrick Reescano with only 1:56 left on the clock, Dalton Johnson sealed the victory with an interception near midfield. “We always talk about starting fast, but you’ve also got to finish strong,” Johnson noted. “We did a great job of that.”

Arizona State had its moments, including a promising 90-yard drive culminating in a 27-yard run by Sims. Yet, their only scoring drive in the first half ended when a 49-yard field goal attempt by Jesus Gomez hit the goal post. “The challenge was us — we just had to get out of our own way,” said tight end Chamon Metayer. “By the time we figured it out, it was too late.”

The first half saw both teams struggle with turnovers and missed opportunities. The Wildcats had their share of setbacks, including a fumble at the Sun Devils’ 8-yard line and a blocked field goal attempt from 42 yards. Despite these challenges, Arizona managed to take a narrow 7-3 lead into halftime, thanks to Salgado-Medina’s 37-yard kick in the closing moments.

This victory not only strengthens Arizona’s position in the Big 12 but also highlights the significant progress the team has made under Coach Brennan’s leadership. After finishing with a disappointing 4-8 record in his first season, the Wildcats have emerged as a formidable force, ranking among the top 25 nationally in multiple defensive categories.

As the season progresses, the Wildcats will look to build on this momentum while the Sun Devils regroup following a disappointing end to their championship aspirations. Arizona’s players and coaching staff will certainly relish this victory, savoring their role in disrupting their rivals’ plans for a repeat title run.