ASU Football Stays out of AP Top 25 Despite Thrilling Win

ASU football update on AP Top 25

Image Source: Arizona Sports

Arizona State University (ASU) football finds itself still seeking recognition, as the Sun Devils remain out of The Associated Press’ Top 25 Poll despite a dramatic 27-24 victory against Baylor. This thrilling win came as a surprise to many, yet ASU could not break into the coveted rankings, receiving only 30 votes from the panel.

Since their loss to Mississippi State in Week 2, ASU has struggled to regain favor in the eyes of voters. Following a robust performance against Texas State last week, where the Sun Devils received 57 votes, this latest win does not seem to sway the perception much. It is worth noting that ASU was the first team out in the Coaches Poll, accumulating 104 votes, signifying the tight race towards ranking recognition.

ASU’s Performance and Challenges Moving Forward

After opening their Big 12 account positively with the recent win, the Sun Devils are preparing for their upcoming matchup against the No. 23 TCU Horned Frogs at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe this Friday. TCU, fresh off a victory of their own against SMU (35-24), poses another significant challenge for ASU. The Sun Devils must capitalize on the momentum created by their recent nail-biting win.

Insights From the Baylor Match

The closing moments of Saturday’s game were nothing short of dramatic, as ASU’s kicker, Jesus Gomez, made a 43-yard field goal as time expired to seal the game. Coach Kenny Dillingham expressed his relief but also his frustrations regarding missed opportunities during the game, remarking, “This should not be this close of a game.” This sentiment reflects the team’s ongoing growth and the areas they must refine to achieve consistent victories.

ASU’s recent strategies have leaned heavily on a strong rushing attack, indicating a shift from a more passing-oriented game. Quarterback Sam Leavitt has been pivotal, displaying versatility and strength, contributing to their evolving offensive identity.

Outlook for ASU Football

The rankings landscape shows some shake-ups, with traditional powerhouses battling for top positions. Notably, Miami has vaulted to No. 2 after a win against Florida, while teams like Texas Tech and BYU have made strides in the poll. ASU is keeping a keen eye on these developments, as they showcase the competitive nature of the Big 12.

  • ASU remains unranked after a dramatic win against Baylor.
  • Upcoming match against TCU could be pivotal for recognition.
  • Kenny Dillingham addresses areas for improvement post-game.
  • Miami climbs to No. 2 in AP rankings.

As the season progresses, maintaining a clear focus will be vital for ASU’s aspirations. They have the talent and tenacity to make waves in the conference, and with each game, they inch closer to solidifying their spot among America’s elite college football programs. The upcoming match against TCU is a crucial opportunity for the Sun Devils to showcase their growth and prove their merit in the national conversation.

FAQs

Why is ASU football out of the AP Top 25 after the win against Baylor?

Despite a dramatic 27-24 victory, ASU received insufficient votes to break into the rankings, reflecting challenges in prior games.

What can ASU do to improve its ranking?

ASU needs to consistently win games and improve aspects of their play highlighted by their coach, focusing on turning missed opportunities into points.

Who does ASU play next?

ASU faces the No. 23 TCU Horned Frogs in their next game, a critical match-up that could influence their ranking moving forward.

How has the Big 12 affected ASU’s performances?

The competitive nature of the Big 12 has prompted ASU to adapt its strategies, focusing more on strong rushing offensive plays.

What is Coach Kenny Dillingham’s take on the team’s performance?

Coach Dillingham acknowledges both the successes and areas needing improvement, emphasizing the need to capitalize on opportunities in future games.

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