No. 8 BYU Hosts Arizona State After 2024 Heartbreaker

On October 27, Arizona State was preparing to visit No. 8 BYU in Provo for a Saturday matchup scheduled to kick off at 12:45 p.m. Arizona time. The teams last met in November 2024, when ASU won 28-23 and went on to claim the Big 12 title.

The finish of that game remains a point of reference for both programs. Officials added a second to the clock after ASU fans rushed the field, giving BYU one more play; its Hail Mary fell short. ASU coach Kenny Dillingham said his reaction to the officials’ decision was not appropriate and that he had been confused by the communication.

Dillingham called LaVell Edwards Stadium one of college football’s toughest venues, citing BYU’s fans and coaching staff. He said simulated crowd noise could not fully replicate the atmosphere, and urged players to focus on their assignments each play.

BYU coach Kalani Sitake praised Dillingham and said ASU had momentum after its recent game. BYU was looking to rebound from an upset loss at UCF. Running back Sione Moa and cornerback Raider Damuni both said the 2024 defeat remained in their minds, while emphasizing preparation for the current matchup.

Quarterback availability is uncertain for ASU: starter Mikey Keene is questionable with a knee injury, and freshman Jake Fette could make his first career start. Dillingham said the team would prepare a plan regardless of who plays. He also praised BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier and described the Cougars’ defense as varied and difficult to predict.