Arizona State Loses But Wins Heart In An Epic Game

Arizona State almost accomplished what had previously been thought unthinkable in what was likely the best game of the 12-team College Football Playoff thus far.

The Sun Devils put up a fierce fight in the game’s last quarter to force overtime against the formidable Texas Longhorns after being soundly trounced for the first three quarters. However, the ASU charge finally failed.

Quinn Ewers‘ 322 yards and four touchdowns, including two in overtime, helped the Longhorns defeat the Sun Devils 39–31 in double overtime.

To put Texas up, 21-year-old Ewers hit tight end Gunnar Helm for a 25-yard score. To seal the victory, the Longhorns defense, which had virtually vanished in the fourth quarter, recovered to intercept ASU quarterback Sam Leavitt on the next possession.

The Sun Devils, who won the Big 12 and were selected last in their conference during the preseason, will never forget their comeback in overtime.

Arizona’s incredible effort in overtime

Before the first overtime, Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” echoed around Mercedes-Benz Stadium, seemingly demonstrating that Arizona State took the song’s message to heart. Despite trailing 17–8 and having minimal offensive output during the first three quarters, they forced the extra time, and their confidence was evident.

The Sun Devils came alive in the fourth quarter thanks to Cam Skattebo, college football’s surprising star. Texas will have a difficult journey back to Atlanta for the national title on January 20 after narrowly defeating Arizona State.

In the College Football Playoff semifinals, the Longhorns will face the winner of the Rose Bowl between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the top-seeded Oregon Ducks.

Texas does have one advantage, though, in that the Cotton Bowl will take place in their home state on January 10 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

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