Image Source: Deseret News
Arizona State vs BYU carries more than conference implications when the Sun Devils visit LaVell Edwards Stadium on Saturday. No. 8 BYU is attempting to recover from a stunning 39-31 double-overtime loss to UCF, while also settling the score from a painful defeat in Tempe two seasons ago.
The game is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. MDT on Oct. 31 and will be televised by Fox. BYU enters the matchup 6-1 overall and 3-1 in Big 12 play. Arizona State is 4-3 overall and 2-2 in the conference.
Arizona State vs BYU Rematch Has High Stakes
The previous meeting remains fresh in the minds of several BYU players. On Nov. 23, 2024, Arizona State defeated the then-No. 14 Cougars 28-23 in Tempe. The loss was particularly painful because ASU supporters stormed the field twice and taunted BYU players as they left for the locker room.
Arizona State built a 28-9 lead behind quarterback Sam Leavitt and running back Cam Skattebo. BYU rallied late and had a chance to win, but Jake Retzlaff’s deep pass to Chase Roberts was caught just short of the goal line.
“That sucked when they stormed the field,” BYU offensive lineman Bruce Mitchell said, according to Deseret News. “That certainly leaves a bad taste in your mouth. I think we are all looking forward to this Saturday.”
BYU Players Remember the Painful Defeat
Safety Raider Damuni was also part of the BYU team that experienced the heartbreaking loss. He said the result remains in the background, although the Cougars are focused on preparing for the current Arizona State roster rather than dwelling on the past.
“They got the best of us in a heartbreaker, and so that is still in the back of our minds,” Damuni said. “We want to go out and put out our best performance.”
Defensive lineman Justin Kirkland was not on the team during the 2024 game, but he has heard plenty about it from his teammates. He described Saturday’s contest as an opportunity for BYU to “even the score.”
Critical Injuries Could Test the Cougars
BYU’s challenge is complicated by several injuries. Standout cornerback Evan “Schmev” Johnson suffered a lower-leg injury during the loss to UCF and will miss the Arizona State game. His absence is significant because the Sun Devils have talented wide receivers Reed Harris and Omarion Miller.
The Cougars are also dealing with problems along the offensive line. Sixth man Trevin Ostler announced that he tore his ACL, MCL and meniscus on one play against UCF, ending his season. Starting right guard Kyle Sfarcioc is listed as probable, while Stanford transfer Zak Yamauchi could start if Sfarcioc is unavailable.
Running back LJ Martin remains out, though coach Kalani Sitake said the reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year is “getting really close” to returning. Running back Preston Rex is listed as probable.
- BYU record: 6-1 overall, 3-1 Big 12
- Arizona State record: 4-3 overall, 2-2 Big 12
- Kickoff: 1:30 p.m. MDT Saturday
- Location: LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo
- Television: Fox
Arizona State Arrives With Fresh Momentum
The Sun Devils have been inconsistent this season but enter Provo after an important victory. Arizona State defeated Kansas State 28-17 last week after true freshman quarterback Jake Fette replaced injured starter Mikey Keene and helped lead the team to the win.
Keene was listed as questionable in the team’s availability report, while additional reports indicated that Fette could make his first career start. BYU coaches are preparing for a team that has shown improvement despite earlier losses to Baylor and Texas Tech.
“If you look at what they were able to do last weekend, they have some momentum, and we’ve got to gain some,” Sitake said. “So it helps being at home.”
Can BYU Bounce Back From UCF?
BYU’s most immediate concern is avoiding another collapse. The Cougars had recently defeated No. 2 Notre Dame 28-24 at home, a victory that placed them in strong College Football Playoff consideration. One week later, they struggled defensively against UCF and returned to Provo with their national hopes damaged.
“That’s not our style of play, and I am really disappointed that (style) showed up,” Sitake said. “So we’ve got to fix it.”
A loss to Arizona State could severely weaken BYU’s chances of reaching the Big 12 championship game. The 2024 defeat kept the Cougars out of the conference title game, and another setback could create similar consequences in a league where every week presents a difficult test.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Arizona State vs BYU game?
The game is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 31, at 1:30 p.m. MDT.
Where will Arizona State vs BYU be played?
The matchup will take place at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah.
What channel will broadcast the game?
Fox will televise the Arizona State vs BYU matchup.
Why is this game important for BYU?
BYU is trying to recover from its loss to UCF and protect its position in the Big 12 championship race.
Which BYU players are dealing with injuries?
Evan Johnson and Trevin Ostler are out, while Kyle Sfarcioc and Preston Rex are listed as probable. LJ Martin remains sidelined.
