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October 13.2025

2 Minutes Read

Can Arizona State Overcome Their AP Ranking Drop Against Texas Tech?

ASU football player in focus during a nighttime game, highlighting effort amidst ranking changes.

The Ups and Downs of Arizona State Football

Arizona State University (ASU) has experienced a turbulent season, recently dropping out of the AP Top 25 after a crushing 42-10 defeat against the Utah Utes. Following their fall from the No. 21 spot, the Sun Devils are now at a critical junction. With a record of 4-2 and facing internal challenges, notably the injury to starting quarterback Sam Leavitt, ASU must strategize effectively as they prepare for their upcoming game against the No. 7 Texas Tech.

Impact of Leavitt’s Absence

Leavitt's absence was keenly felt during the Utah matchup. As a player who had begun to find his rhythm—culminating in an impressive showing against TCU—it is unclear when he will return to the field. The sophomore quarterback has accumulated 1,039 yards, showcasing his potential as a leader on offense. Without him, ASU faces a daunting challenge, relying on backup strategies that may not hold water against stronger opponents like Texas Tech.

The Next Test: Texas Tech

ASU's next hurdle is against Texas Tech, a formidable adversary boasting a potent offense that ranks first in the nation, averaging 558.2 yards per game. The numbers indicate a significant gulf in performance between the two teams. Texas Tech's scoring average of 47.5 points is almost double ASU's own 26.0, raising questions about how ASU's defense, which is ranked 48th, will handle the onslaught. The Sun Devils will need to step up their game, optimize their strategic plays, and foster a resilient “next man up” mentality to stay competitive.

Implications for ASU Fans

The disappointment from dropping out of the top rankings echoes through the Valley, further exacerbated by the recent losses faced by other local teams, including the Arizona Cardinals. Valley sports fans are yearning for a turnaround, making this next game crucial not only for ASU’s season but also for restoring hope among its loyal fanbase.

A Call to Action

As ASU prepares to face Texas Tech on Saturday, October 18, they must harness this moment as a wake-up call. Will they rebound with resilience or succumb to the pressure? Fans are encouraged to rally behind their team, as a strong showing could turn the narrative of the season around. It’s time for the Sun Devils to rise to the occasion and seize the opportunity to showcase their true potential on the national stage.

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10.12.2025

How Sam Leavitt's Injury Put Arizona State's Season on the Edge

Update The Impact of Sam Leavitt's Absence on Arizona State's Performance Arizona State's football team faced a tough challenge on Saturday night, falling to Utah with a disheartening score of 42-10. The glaring absence of sophomore quarterback Sam Leavitt, sidelined with a right foot and ankle injury, significantly affected the Sun Devils' strategy and execution. His situation was compounded by Coach Kenny Dillingham's pre-game warning that it would take a "mini miracle" for Leavitt to play, casting a shadow over the team's preparations. Can Jeff Sims Fill the Void? In Leavitt's place, senior quarterback Jeff Sims took the reins, but struggled to find his rhythm. Completing only 18 of 38 passes for a mere 124 yards, his performance starkly contrasted with Leavitt's earlier triumphs, particularly a stellar outing against TCU where he threw for 291 yards and two touchdowns. Despite the coaching staff's confidence in Sims, his inability to spark the offense left a palpable vacancy in the lineup. The Long-Term Implications for ASU The sudden drop in Arizona State's performance poses questions about the team's depth and adaptability. Coach Dillingham will need to assess the impact of Leavitt's potential absence moving forward. With their next game against the formidable No. 9 Texas Tech, the Sun Devils must quickly recalibrate their strategies, either around Sims or potentially another quarterback. The loss has raised concerns about sustaining momentum built from previous successes, potentially complicating their season further. A Siemple Takeaway: Adaptation is Key ASU's stumble against Utah illuminates the necessity for quick adjustments in college football. As the team prepares to face tougher opponents, the ability to adapt will determine whether they can salvage their season. While fans are left grappling with disappointment, the critical takeaway remains: resilient teams find ways to rise above challenges. A lack of adaptability can falter even the most promising seasons in college football, and ASU now faces that very challenge.

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10.10.2025

Sam Leavitt’s Doubtful Status: What It Means For Arizona State Against Utah

Update Can Arizona State Survive Without Sam Leavitt? In a critical turn of events, Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Sam Leavitt has been downgraded to doubtful for their upcoming game against Utah. This subtle shift in status has introduced uncertainty in the Sun Devils' offensive strategy, a topic that fans and analysts alike are eager to dissect as game time approaches. The Impact of Leavitt’s Absence Leavitt, previously listed as probable, has been a dynamic force behind the Sun Devils' recent three-game win streak, including a standout performance against TCU. His agility and strategic passing have established him as the centerpiece of ASU's offensive playbook. If Leavitt cannot play, the Sun Devils' head coach Kenny Dillingham may have to pivot quickly, utilizing former Georgia Tech and Nebraska quarterback Jeff Sims. While Sims brings experience, his previous performance has left mixed feelings among fans and coaching staff alike, especially following a difficult start last season. Adjustments Ahead: The Shift to Sims Should Sims take the helm, expect a heavier reliance on the running game coupled with a simplified offensive game plan. This adjustment has its pros and cons; while it could mitigate the risk of turnovers, the Sun Devils risk losing the explosive play capabilities that Leavitt brings. Coach Dillingham has hinted that the staff will reassess their approach, perhaps leaning towards a more conservative style of play until Sims finds his rhythm. Utah: A Tough Opponent The upcoming matchup against Utah promises to be a stern test. Known for their formidable defense, the Utes will be looking to exploit any weaknesses in the ASU formation, particularly if faced with a less mobile quarterback in Sims. The implications of this game are significant, impacting ASU’s standing in the Big 12, making this a must-win situation. Looking Ahead As fans eagerly wait for the final word on Leavitt, the Sun Devils must prepare for any scenario. The game against Utah could pave the way for Sims to showcase his abilities or deepen the team's dependence on Leavitt's leadership. Regardless of who leads the charge on the field, one thing's certain: each player's performance will significantly affect Arizona State's trajectory this season. The overall uncertainty surrounding Leavitt’s injury not only raises concerns about his health but also tests the team’s resilience and adaptability. As fans rally behind their Sun Devils, the outcome of Saturday's game could shift the narrative for ASU this season.

Can Arizona State Overcome Their AP Ranking Drop Against Texas Tech?

The Ups and Downs of Arizona State Football

Impact of Leavitt’s Absence

The Next Test: Texas Tech

Implications for ASU Fans

A Call to Action

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