Game Preview Arizona State Sun Devils @ Colorado Buffaloes
The Arizona State Sun Devils arrive in Boulder on a two-game winning streak and ranked No. 25 nationally, finding stability behind veteran backup quarterback Jeff Sims. At 7-3 overall and 5-2 in Big 12 play, Arizona State remains in position to improve its bowl profile and maintain upward momentum.
The Colorado Buffaloes enter at 3-7 and face another challenging matchup in a season marked by regression, injuries, and roster transition. Deion Sanders’ team is locked into its second losing campaign in his three-year tenure, but the emergence of freshman quarterback Julian “JuJu” Lewis provides a promising long-term narrative.
Lewis became the ninth true freshman quarterback to start a game in Colorado history, delivering 299 passing yards and two touchdowns in his debut at West Virginia. His poise, accuracy, and confidence represent a building block for Colorado’s offensive future. Head coach Kenny Dillingham of Arizona State credited Colorado’s ability to attract high-level recruits under Sanders, reinforcing the program’s recruiting appeal despite on-field struggles.
Arizona State has thrived under Sims, who replaced injured starter Sam Leavitt. Sims has accounted for 384 passing yards and four touchdowns while rushing for 309 yards over the last two games. His 228-yard rushing performance against Iowa State remains one of the most dynamic quarterback rushing efforts in the conference this season.
Bettors can explore deeper market context using NCAAF odds and team pages via the college football directory. Tools such as how betting odds work, alternate total points, and winning margin meaning add insight for derivative wagers.
Odds and Key Information
Arizona State Moneyline: -272
Colorado Moneyline: +221
Spread: Arizona State -7.0 / Colorado +7.0
Total: 49.0
Venue: Folsom Field, Boulder, CO
Kickoff: Saturday, November 22, 8:00 p.m. ET
Broadcast: ESPN2
Secondary strategies may involve teaser betting or multi-leg parlay approaches.
Arizona State Outlook
Arizona State’s recent success stems from the adaptability of Jeff Sims. The veteran quarterback has reinvigorated the offense with creative rushing ability, decisive passing, and situational awareness. His 32-of-52 passing line with four touchdowns and his 309 combined rushing yards highlight the dual-threat dimension Colorado must prepare for.
Running back Raleek Brown anchors the ground attack with 823 rushing yards, while the Sun Devils’ offensive structure aims for balanced play distribution. Arizona State ranks 38th nationally in rushing yards and showcases efficiency in both red-zone offense and possession control.
Defensively, Arizona State excels in turnover creation. Their seven interceptions and five fumble recoveries underscore their ability to disrupt opponent rhythm and tilt field position. This turnover-centric profile enhances the viability of derivative markets explored through prop bet mechanics, sports betting strategies, and handicap models.
Arizona State Injury Report
Ben Coleman (OL) – Out
Xavion Alford (DB) – Out
Zyrus Fiaseu (LB) – Out
Jordyn Tyson (WR) – Questionable
Zac Swanson (DL) – Questionable
Kyson Brown (RB) – Questionable
Sam Leavitt (QB) – Out
MyKeil Gardner (DL) – Out
Noble Johnson (WR) – Questionable
Christian Hunt (QB) – Questionable
Coleson Arends (TE) – Questionable
Salesi Manu (DL) – Out
Colorado Outlook
Colorado’s offense displayed renewed energy behind Julian Lewis, who threw for 299 yards and two touchdowns in his collegiate debut. His timing, accuracy, and composure enable Colorado to stretch the field and capitalize on athletic receiving options. Omarion Miller leads the passing attack with 652 yards and seven touchdowns, providing a reliable vertical outlet for Lewis.
Defensively, Colorado thrives on creating turnovers. They rank sixth nationally in interceptions and seventh in fumble recoveries. These metrics provide potential high-leverage opportunities, especially against a mobile quarterback like Sims who extends plays and creates risk exposure.
Colorado’s challenge centers on consistency. Their 3-7 record reflects issues in sustaining drives, controlling clock, and avoiding breakdowns in red-zone defense. Still, the emergence of Lewis represents a potential shift, offering bettors angles supported by guides such as live betting, spread meaning, and unit sizing.
Colorado Injury Report
Amari McNeill (DT) – Questionable
Simeon Price (RB) – Questionable
DJ McKinney (CB) – Questionable
Makari Vickers (CB) – Questionable
Hykeem Williams (WR) – Questionable
Larry Johnson III (OL) – Questionable
RJ Johnson (CB) – Questionable
Jordan Seaton (OT) – Questionable
Christian Hudson (DT) – Questionable
Key Matchup Table
| Category | Edge |
|---|---|
| Quarterback Mobility | Arizona State |
| Turnover Creation | Colorado |
| Passing Efficiency | Arizona State |
| Run Game Stability | Arizona State |
| Explosive Play Potential | Colorado |
| Coaching/Continuity | Arizona State |
Betting Trends
Arizona State is 12-1 straight up in its last 13 home games.
Arizona State is 23-6 straight up as a favorite in its last 29 games.
Arizona State is 6-0 ATS after a loss in its last six.
Colorado is 16-3 straight up as a favorite in its last 19 games.
Colorado is 10-4 ATS in its last 14 home games.
Arizona State is 10-5 ATS in its last 15 road games.
These patterns can be interpreted alongside analytical tools like hedge betting, betting terminology A–Z, and the widely used NFL expert betting guide.
Predictions
Arizona State enters with a more complete team structure, consistent quarterback play, and a defensive model that can pressure Lewis into difficult situations. Colorado’s emergence under Lewis adds unpredictability, but Arizona State’s balance and turnover control shape a favorable projection.
Projected Score: Arizona State 30, Colorado 20
Spread Pick: Arizona State -7
Total Lean: Over 49
Why You Need Expert Picks
Late-season Big 12 games feature volatility driven by quarterback changes, bowl motivation, and defensive attrition. Bettors looking to maximize edge can leverage verified insights on the Handicappers Leaderboard. Supporting tools such as alternate total points, sports betting strategies, and how betting odds work offer additional value when evaluating matchup volatility.


