Why Arizona State Could Pull Off the Upset

Despite being viewed as the biggest underdogs in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, the Arizona State Sun Devils have proven critics wrong throughout the season. Head coach Kenny Dillingham successfully transformed the team from pre-season expectations of finishing last in the Big 12 to a formidable opponent, culminating in five straight victories, including a decisive win over Iowa State in the Big 12 Championship Game.

The Sun Devils’ success can be attributed to a balanced offensive attack led by running back Cam Skattebo and quarterback Sam Leavitt. Skattebo stands out with 1,568 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns, while Leavitt's arm has evolved into a significant threat, posting 2,663 yards, 24 touchdowns, and just five interceptions. This duo is critical for minimizing turnovers, giving Arizona State a fighting chance against a Texas team that has shown defensive vulnerabilities.

Texas: A Team of Talent with Inconsistencies

The Longhorns, backed by a wealth of talent, are favored to win but have faced inconsistent performances, particularly on offense. Despite a strong victory against Clemson, in which they ran the ball 48 times for 292 yards, Texas must demonstrate that they can sustain such success against a disciplined Arizona State defense that ranks favorably in stopping the run.

If Texas can reestablish their ground game, replicating their performance from the previous round, they will be difficult to stop. However, they must tread carefully; the Sun Devils' defense has shown improvement and will be eager to capitalize on any mistakes.

Betting Predictions and Strategies

- Spread: Arizona State +12.5. Historically, they've performed well against the spread, boasting an 11-2 record this season. Meanwhile, Texas has struggled recently, covering only 4 of their last 10 spreads.

- Moneyline: Texas -500. They are viewed as heavy favorites based on their talent advantage.

- Over/Under: Under 51.5. With two teams focusing on the ground game and defenses that have held their opponents to under four yards per carry, it’s reasonable to expect a low-scoring affair.

- Best Bet: Consider betting on the Under for the first half at 26.5, as both teams will likely adopt a conservative strategy early.

A Closer Look at Key Players

For Arizona State, watch for Cam Skattebo’s powerful running and Leavitt's calculated passing, particularly as they attempt to exploit any gaps in the Texas defense. On the Longhorns’ side, running back Tre Wisner has been a key player, gaining over 500 yards in the last four games and potentially overwhelming an Arizona State defense that has struggled against standout running backs.

Final Thoughts

Expect a tense battle in the Peach Bowl, where the Arizona State Sun Devils aim to continue their surprising postseason run against a Texas Longhorns team eager to prove they are worthy of their ranking. As the game unfolds, both sides will need strategic planning and execution—factors that will not only determine the outcome but could significantly impact your betting decisions.

Stay tuned for what promises to be an electrifying clash as these two teams vie for a coveted spot in the CFP semifinals!