The build-up to the match between Arizona State and Texas was peppered with a verbal onslaught from Arizona’s players. Although Arizona quarterback Sam Leavitt and running back Cam Skattebo performed impressively, Texas emerged the victor by 39-31 in a nerve-racking double-overtime win during the Peach Bowl on New Year’s Day. The successful conclusion qualified the Longhorns for the College Football Playoff (CFP) semi-finals, where they will rival the victor of the Oregon and Ohio State match.
Despite their win, Texas had difficulty capitalizing on their chances, a recurring problem throughout the season. A potential 24-8 lead with around 10 minutes to end the game was squandered, permitting 16 uninterrupted points by Arizona, propelling the game into overtime. A walk-off field goal attempt to secure a regulation win by Texas failed as time ran out.
The first score of the overtime session came when Leavitt scrambled 16-yards, followed by a touchdown run by Skattebo. However, Texas leveled scores after Ewers fired a 28-yard dart to receiver Matthew Golden. Texas then took advantage of the following possession. Ewers found tight end Gunnar Helm, and Golden topped off with a two-point conversion, forcing Arizona to score a touchdown during its last drive. However, Leavitt’s pass was intercepted by Andrew Mukuba, ending the game for Arizona.
The game began with Arizona opening with a field goal, followed by Texas showcasing its explosiveness and speed. Ewers connected with Golden, who led all receivers with 149 yards and a touchdown, for 54 yards and subsequently found DeAndre Moore for a 23-yard touchdown pass. Texas scored 14 points in less than two minutes, all from two offensive plays. This sprightly start left the Arizona players visibly frustrated.
Arizona regained composure after half-time, exerting immense pressure on Texas. However, Texas’s top-rated defensive players stood their ground, even after Arizona built momentum with a fake punt on the fourth down. Running back Skattebo’s audacious actions forced the game into overtime.
Despite Arizona’s loss, Skattebo played a crucial role for his team. In addition to running, catching, and passing, Skattebo accounted for 284 yards – an impressive 75% of Texas’s total offence. Texas will now face either Ohio State or Oregon in the Cotton Bowl, scheduled for January 10th.
