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The College Football Playoff quarterfinal between Texas and Arizona State in the Peach Bowl had a little bit of everything, delivering the most competitive game of the inaugural 12-team playoff so far. In the end, Texas prevailed 39-31 in double overtime, advancing to the semifinals after surviving a late Arizona State rally that nearly changed the outcome.
College Football Playoff: Texas Outlasts Arizona State in Double-Overtime
Texas’ Air Attack and Ewers’ Poise
Pre-game predictions emphasized Quinn Ewers’ arm talent and Texas’ receiving corps as key to victory. Ewers delivered, completing 20-of-30 passes for 322 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception, including critical throws in overtime. Matthew Golden emerged as his go-to target with seven receptions for 149 yards and a touchdown, including a game-saving 28-yard grab on fourth-and-13 in the first overtime.
Cam Skattebo’s All-Around Impact
Arizona State’s Cam Skattebo, touted for his versatility, exceeded expectations with a heroic performance. He rushed for 143 yards and two touchdowns, caught eight passes for 99 yards, and even threw a 42-yard touchdown pass. Despite his efforts, Texas’ defense made timely stops to limit his overall impact.
Defensive Battle in the Trenches
Arizona State’s defensive front was expected to challenge Texas’ rushing attack, and they succeeded. The Longhorns were held to just 53 rushing yards on 30 attempts (1.8 YPC). However, Texas’ defensive line matched the intensity, sacking Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt three times and contributing to a turnover that sealed the game.
Key Moments
Texas Takes Early Control: The Longhorns scored on their first two offensive plays, a 54-yard pass to Golden followed by a 23-yard touchdown strike to DeAndre Moore, taking a 14-3 lead. Silas Bolden’s 75-yard punt return touchdown extended the lead.
Arizona State’s Fourth-Quarter Rally: Down 24-8, Arizona State scored two quick touchdowns and two 2-point conversions in a 91-second span, tying the game at 24. Skattebo’s 62-yard reception set up his 2-yard touchdown run, showcasing his dominance.
Ewers’ Game-Saving Throw: On fourth-and-13 in the first overtime, Ewers found Golden for a 28-yard touchdown to keep Texas alive. He followed it with a 25-yard touchdown to Gunnar Helm in the second overtime, sealing the win.
Andrew Mukuba’s Game-Ending Interception: Mukuba intercepted Leavitt’s pass in the second overtime, ending Arizona State’s valiant effort.
Game Stats
Total Yards: Texas 375, Arizona State 510
Passing Yards: Texas 322, Arizona State 296
Rushing Yards: Texas 53, Arizona State 214
Time of Possession: Arizona State 37:54, Texas 22:06
Turnovers: Texas 1, Arizona State 1
Postgame Insights
Texas’ Resilience
Despite being outgained and dominated in time of possession, Texas demonstrated grit in critical moments. Ewers’ clutch throws and timely defensive stops kept their championship hopes alive.
Arizona State’s Missed Opportunities
The Sun Devils had three drives inside Texas territory that ended with zero points, including a blocked field goal and two failed fourth-down attempts. A controversial no-call on targeting in the final minute also loomed large in Arizona State’s loss.
Player of the Game: Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas
Quinn Ewers’ poise under pressure was pivotal to Texas’ thrilling victory. Ewers completed 20-of-30 passes for 322 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. His two clutch touchdown passes in overtime highlighted his ability to deliver when it mattered most. On fourth-and-13 in the first overtime, Ewers floated a 28-yard strike to Matthew Golden to extend the game. In the second overtime, he connected with Gunnar Helm on a 25-yard touchdown, followed by a successful 2-point conversion to Golden, sealing the win. Ewers also showcased his versatility with a 5-yard rushing touchdown earlier in the game, providing a steady hand amid Arizona State’s relentless comeback attempt.
Looking Ahead
Texas: The Longhorns move on to face the winner of the Rose Bowl (Oregon vs. Ohio State) in the Cotton Bowl semifinal on Jan. 10. They will need to clean up their ground game and refine their red-zone efficiency.
Arizona State: Despite the loss, the Sun Devils’ remarkable season solidified their status as a rising program under head coach Kenny Dillingham. Skattebo’s performance and the team’s grit provide a strong foundation for 2025.
The Peach Bowl delivered the drama the expanded College Football Playoff promised, leaving Texas one step closer to a national title and Arizona State with a bright future ahead.