Utah football has had two weeks to regroup after a tough home loss to Arizona in Week 5.
The Utes, sitting at 4-1 overall and 1-1 in the Big 12, took a Week 6 bye to reassess and prepare for their next challenge. That challenge comes in the form of Arizona State, another 4-1 team, also 1-1 in conference play. The two programs, long accustomed to facing each other in the Pac-12, now meet as Big 12 rivals in what promises to be a critical game for both teams.
Arizona State holds a 22-12 advantage in the all-time series between the schools. Historically, the Sun Devils have been the dominant force, but Utah has won six of the last 10 matchups. This includes a resounding 55-3 victory last season in Salt Lake City, where the Utes dismantled Arizona State in one of the most lopsided games in the history of the rivalry. Both teams enter this matchup knowing a win would be crucial in the race for the Big 12 title.
For Utah, the primary concern heading into the game has been the health of their star quarterback, Cam Rising. The Utes have played their last few games without Rising, and his absence was felt in their 16-10 loss to Arizona in Week 5. Without their usual offensive leader, Utah managed to accumulate 364 total yards but only scored 10 points, thanks to two turnovers that hampered their scoring efforts. The team’s only touchdown came early in the fourth quarter, but by then, they were already down 16-3. Despite a late surge, Utah was unable to close the gap and suffered their first loss of the season.
However, there is hope on the horizon for Utah fans. Reports from Brett McMurphy suggest that Cam Rising is set to return this week, after missing the last three games due to injury. His return could provide a significant boost for the Utes, as Rising’s experience and leadership have been vital to their success in recent seasons. The team will be eager to have him back under center as they take on an Arizona State team that has shown flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency this season.
Arizona State, meanwhile, comes into this game with momentum on their side. The Sun Devils are fresh off a thrilling 35-31 victory over Kansas at home, a game in which quarterback Sam Levitt shined. Levitt threw for four touchdowns in the win, leading his team to an important victory in front of their home crowd. Running back Cam Skattebo also played a key role, rushing for 182 yards and adding a touchdown of his own. The dynamic duo of Levitt and Skattebo has been the driving force behind Arizona State’s offense this season, and they will be looking to replicate their success against a tough Utah defense.
The Sun Devils’ Week 5 bye came at a crucial time, giving them a chance to regroup after a disappointing 30-22 loss to Oklahoma in Week 4. Arizona State’s defense struggled in that game, allowing too many big plays, but they bounced back in impressive fashion against Kansas. Head coach Kenny Dillingham has emphasized the importance of consistency, and he will be hoping his team can build on their recent success as they prepare to face Utah.
Defensively, Arizona State will have their hands full trying to contain Utah’s balanced attack. Even without Rising, the Utes have shown they can move the ball, especially on the ground. Running back Ja’Quinden Jackson has been a key contributor for Utah, and his ability to break tackles and gain tough yards will be critical in this game. The Sun Devils will need to focus on limiting Utah’s ground game and forcing them into passing situations, especially if Rising is not at full strength.
On the other side of the ball, Utah’s defense will need to find a way to slow down Levitt and Skattebo. The Utes have been one of the better defensive teams in the Big 12 this season, consistently limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities. However, Arizona State’s offense presents a unique challenge with its combination of speed and physicality. Levitt’s ability to extend plays with his legs, combined with Skattebo’s power running, makes the Sun Devils a difficult team to defend.
As both teams enter this Week 7 matchup, the stakes are high. With identical records in both conference and overall play, a win in this game would position either team well in the race for the Big 12 championship. For Utah, this game represents an opportunity to get back on track after their disappointing loss to Arizona. The return of Cam Rising could be the difference-maker, giving the Utes the offensive spark they need to contend for the Big 12 title.
For Arizona State, a victory would solidify their status as a legitimate contender in the Big 12. After an up-and-down start to the season, the Sun Devils are looking to string together wins and build momentum as they head into the second half of the season. Sam Levitt and Cam Skattebo will be key to their success, but they’ll need contributions from all phases of the game to overcome a tough Utah team.
The game is set to be nationally televised on ESPN, with Anish Shroff providing the play-by-play, former Heisman Trophy winner Andre Ware offering analysis, and Paul Carcaterra reporting from the sidelines. Fans can also stream the game on the ESPN app, ESPN+, or Fubo, which offers a free trial for new users. With so much on the line, this promises to be one of the most exciting games of Week 7.
Ultimately, the outcome of this game could have significant implications for both teams’ seasons. Utah will be hoping to replicate last year’s dominance over Arizona State, while the Sun Devils will be looking for revenge and an opportunity to make a statement on their home turf. Whether it’s the return of Cam Rising or the continued brilliance of Sam Levitt and Cam Skattebo, the stars are aligned for an intense and thrilling contest.
Kickoff is set for later today, and all eyes will be on Tempe as these two Big 12 teams clash in what could be a pivotal moment in their seasons.
