Game Preview Arizona @ Arizona State
No. 25 Arizona Wildcats travel to Tempe to face No. 20 Arizona State Sun Devils on Friday night in a crucial Big 12 rivalry matchup. Both teams enter with identical 8-3 overall records, though Arizona State holds a 6-2 mark in conference play, slightly ahead of Arizona’s 5-3.
This year’s Territorial Cup brings added stakes: bragging rights, bowl positioning, and a potential Big 12 title game berth for ASU depending on other results. The Sun Devils dominated this rivalry last season, but Arizona is a slight favorite this time around.
Odds and Key Information
Spread: Arizona -2.0
Total: 48.5
Moneyline: Arizona -124, Arizona State +103
Venue: Mountain America Stadium, Tempe, AZ
Kickoff: Friday, November 28 at 9:00 PM ET
For line updates, visit the latest NCAAF odds and scores.
Arizona Outlook
The Wildcats are rolling into rivalry week with four straight wins, including a dominant 41-17 effort over Baylor. Quarterback Noah Fifita continues to deliver, throwing for 848 yards and 8 touchdowns over the last four games with just one interception.
Arizona ranks 26th nationally in scoring (368 points), and their defensive play has been timely. The Wildcats boast 16 interceptions (17th nationally) and 21 sacks on the season. Running back Ismail Mahdi has been a steady contributor with 732 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns.
Injury updates may play a role, with offensive linemen Tristan Bounds and Jordan Brown both questionable, along with multiple defensive backs.
Arizona State Outlook
Arizona State is riding a three-game win streak behind backup QB Jeff Sims, who has impressed as a dual-threat option since taking over. Last week’s 42-17 win over Colorado showcased the Sun Devils’ elite rushing attack — 355 yards on the ground led by Raleek Brown.
ASU ranks 23rd in rushing yards and 29th in first downs earned. On defense, they bring consistent pressure, ranking 8th nationally in both sacks (31) and interceptions (7).
Sims’ ability to extend plays and a disruptive front seven could make this a tougher matchup for Arizona than the betting line suggests.
Key Matchup Table
| Key Stats | Arizona Wildcats | Arizona State Sun Devils |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 33.5 | 30.2 |
| Passing Yards | 2,677 | 1,145 |
| Rushing Yards | 1,542 | 2,208 |
| Turnovers Forced | 21 | 19 |
| Sacks | 21 | 31 |
Betting Trends
Arizona is 8-0 straight up in their last 8 games with totals of 50+ points.
Arizona is 17-4 straight up as a favorite in their last 21 games.
Arizona State is 12-1 SU in their last 13 home games.
ASU is 5-1 ATS as an underdog in their last 6.
Arizona State is 6-0 SU following a loss in their last 6 tries.
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Arizona’s last 7 road games.
For more team angles, check the NCAAF teams page.
Predictions
Rivalry games tend to throw out the records, but Arizona enters with more consistency in the passing game and fewer injuries. However, Arizona State’s home dominance and dynamic rushing attack cannot be overlooked.
This should be a tight contest that could come down to a late possession. Our model gives Arizona a 52.1% win probability.
Projected Score: Arizona 31, Arizona State 27
Pick Against the Spread: Arizona -2
Lean on Total: OVER 48.5
Why You Need Expert Picks
Rivalry week brings value — and volatility. When records don’t tell the full story, lean on expert models and veteran handicappers. See the full slate of NCAAF picks with updated lines, power ratings, and confidence levels.
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Rivalry week is wild. Let ScoresAndStats guide your bets.


