Matchup Overview
The stage is set for an electrifying College Football Playoff Quarterfinal matchup as the #4 seed Arizona State Sun Devils clash with the #5 seed Texas Longhorns at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl in Atlanta, Georgia. Both programs have enjoyed standout seasons and enter this matchup in excellent form.
Recap
Texas Longhorns
Texas earned its spot in the Quarterfinals with a convincing 38-24 win over ACC Champion Clemson in the first round. Quarterback Quinn Ewers threw for 202 yards and a touchdown while running backs Jaydon Blue and Quintrevion Wisner combined for 256 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns. The Longhorns’ defense, led by linebacker Anthony Hill Jr., limited Clemson’s high-powered offense, setting the stage for their showdown with Arizona State.
Arizona State Sun Devils
Arizona State enters the College Football Playoff on the heels of a dominant performance in the Big 12 Championship. The Sun Devils dismantled Iowa State 44-19 behind a dynamic offensive display. Running back Cam Skattebo had a stellar outing, racking up 170 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns, showcasing the explosiveness of Arizona State's ground game. The defense stepped up with timely stops, helping secure the team’s first-round bye.
Offensive Strengths
Texas Longhorns
The Longhorns lean on a versatile offense, headlined by Quinn Ewers at quarterback and a dynamic backfield featuring Jaydon Blue and Quintrevion Wisner. Texas has one of the most dynamic offenses in the country, ranking 11th in total offense in 2024. Tight end Gunnar Helm adds a reliable option in the passing game, giving the Longhorns the ability to create favorable matchups against opposing defenses.
Arizona State Sun Devils
The Sun Devils thrive on a balanced offensive attack led by Sam Leavitt. His ability to connect with receivers like Melquan Stovall and Xavier Guillory complements the rushing prowess of Cam Skattebo, who has amassed over 1,500 rushing yards this season. Arizona State's offensive line has been effective in creating space for the run game, which will be crucial against Texas’ front seven.
Defensive Outlook
Texas Longhorns
The Longhorns boast a ferocious defense that has been their hallmark all season. Ranked 2nd nationally in defense, Texas is especially stout against the pass, where they excel in forcing turnovers. Linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. leads a front seven that will look to contain Cam Skattebo while pressuring Sam Leavitt into mistakes.
Arizona State Sun Devils
The Sun Devils’ defense is a solid group, ranked 27th this season. Keith Abney II and Myles Rowser anchor a secondary that has tallied 15 interceptions this season, but the pass rush has struggled this year. They will need to step up and disrupt Ewers and Texas' passing game.
Conclusion and Prediction
Arizona State’s ability to establish the run and control the clock will be crucial, while Texas must capitalize on its defensive strengths and force turnovers. I think the Sun Devils struggle offensively in this matchup as the Longhorns’ dominance on defense continues as they move on to the semifinals of the College Football Playoff.
JY Official Prediction: Texas 31, Arizona State 21
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