The Utah Utes are set to face the Arizona State Sun Devils in a crucial Big 12 matchup. With both teams standing at 4-1, the game is pivotal for their conference standings. Utah, favored by 6 points, hopes for the return of quarterback Cam Rising from injury, while Arizona State aims to continue their strong performance led by running back Cameron Skattebo.
In a highly anticipated Big 12 clash, the Utah Utes will take on the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Both teams have shown strong early-season form, each recording a 4-1 start. This game not only represents a critical point in their 2024 campaigns but also features the potential return of Utah's star quarterback, Cam Rising, who has been sidelined due to a hand injury. The outcome of this matchup could significantly influence the conference standings and the teams' paths toward the College Football Playoff.
Arizona State's success may hinge on the performance of Cameron Skattebo, who has been a powerhouse in rushing and receiving yards. For Utah, the potential return of quarterback Cam Rising could provide a significant boost. Rising's readiness to play, following a hand injury, remains a critical factor as he has been a pivotal player for the Utes in past seasons. On the defensive end, Utah's Van Fillinger could play a crucial role with his impressive track record in tackles and sacks.
Arizona State will likely focus on exploiting their running game, leveraging Skattebo's recent form to dominate time of possession and control the pace of the game. Utah, on the other hand, will count on their defensive prowess, which ranks among the top in the nation, to stifle Arizona State's attacks. The strategic deployment of Rising, if he plays, will also be key, as his ability to orchestrate the offense has been proven to significantly impact Utah's game outcomes.
The betting lines favor Utah by 6 points, with an over/under set at 46.5 points. According to expert predictions and computer models, such as the SP+ prediction model, Utah is slightly favored to win. However, the predictions also suggest a close game, indicating that Arizona State could cover the spread or potentially secure an upset, reflecting the evenly matched nature of this contest.
As the Utah Utes and Arizona State Sun Devils prepare to face off, this game promises to be a defining moment in their season. With both teams at 4-1, the outcome will have substantial implications for their standings in the Big 12 and their prospects of advancing to the College Football Playoff. The return of key players from injuries and the strategic battles on the field will be pivotal in determining the victor in this closely contested matchup.