Arizona State’s debut season in the Big 12 has been nothing short of impressive, with a 45-19 victory over Iowa State in the Big 12 championship game propelling them into the College Football Playoff. The Sun Devils, led by head coach Kenny Dillingham and standout running back Cam Skattebo, have a six-game winning streak and are now guaranteed a playoff spot as one of the five highest-ranked conference champions.
Skattebo, who had 170 yards rushing in the championship game, showcased his talent with multiple touchdowns and big plays, solidifying his status as one of the best running backs in the country. Arizona State’s success this season, with an 11-2 record, is a stark contrast to their preseason prediction to finish at the bottom of the conference.
Despite their impressive performance, Arizona State may have to settle for a lower ranking in the final CFP standings compared to other conference champions like Boise State and Clemson. However, the team remains hopeful of securing a top-four seed for a first-round bye in the playoff.
Iowa State, on the other hand, put up a strong fight in the championship game but ultimately fell short due to turnovers in key moments. The Cyclones, with a 10-3 record, will now await their bowl destination, likely to be either the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio or the Pop Tarts Bowl in Orlando.
Overall, Arizona State’s remarkable turnaround from a 3-9 season in the Pac-12 to a conference title in the Big 12 is a testament to their hard work and determination. Fans eagerly anticipate the team’s playoff debut and are excited to see how they will fare against the top teams in the nation.
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