Arizona Forces 5 Turnovers, Dashes ASU’s Title Hopes 23-7
UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, Arizona upended rival Arizona State with a commanding 23-7 victory on December 1, 2023, effectively crushing the Sun Devils’ hopes of a Big 12 championship repeat. Quarterback Noah Fifita led the Wildcats with 286 passing yards, throwing one touchdown while the defense dominated, forcing a staggering five turnovers.
This highly anticipated matchup, known as the Territorial Cup, marked a critical moment for both teams. Arizona State (8-4, 6-3 Big 12, No. 20 CFP) entered with slim chances of reaching the title game for a second consecutive year, but Arizona (9-3, 6-3, No. 25 CFP) dismantled those hopes in front of a packed crowd in Tempe, Arizona.
The Wildcats’ defense smothered the Sun Devils throughout the game, limiting them to just 214 total yards. Quarterback Jeff Sims, in his fourth start for the injured Sam Leavitt, struggled significantly, throwing three interceptions and losing two fumbles. A blunder during a handoff on Arizona State’s own 6-yard line set up a crucial touchdown pass from Fifita to Cameron Barmore early in the third quarter, widening the gap.
Despite a promising 90-yard drive that ended with Sims’ 27-yard rushing touchdown, Arizona State could not regain momentum. Their only other first-half scoring opportunity ended in disappointment when Jesus Gomez’s 49-yard field goal attempt hit the goal post. Arizona managed to capitalize on their chances, but the first half was riddled with missed opportunities, including two field goal attempts that were either blocked or missed.
The Wildcats finally broke through with a 37-yard field goal by Michael Salgado-Medina just before halftime, bringing the score to 7-3.
As the game progressed, Arizona’s defense continued to stifle Arizona State, who fell flat in a must-win game. The Wildcats’ defensive prowess not only avenged last year’s 49-7 defeat but also showcased their significant improvement under Coach Brent Brennan.
“We focused on executing our game plan and limiting their big plays,” said Brennan post-game. “Our defense stepped up when it mattered most.”
With the victory, Arizona secures a bowl game for the second time in three years, while Arizona State’s path to a bowl game is uncertain after a disappointing end to the regular season.
The implications of this game resonate deeply for both programs, with Arizona State’s aspirations of repeating as champions dashed, while Arizona looks ahead to their postseason opportunities. Fans are left to wonder how the Sun Devils will respond in the offseason after such a bitter defeat.
Next, Arizona will await their bowl game assignment, while Arizona State will likely find themselves in a lower-tier bowl, reflecting on a season that began with high expectations.
Stay tuned for updates as both teams prepare for their upcoming challenges and reflect on this pivotal moment in the rivalry.
