Texas escapes major upset with 39-31 double overtime win over Arizona State in Peach Bowl

Published at: January 2, 2025 7:02 AM

Updated at: January 2, 2025 7:26 AM

In a thrilling Peach Bowl game, Texas fought hard to keep its championship hopes alive, defeating Arizona State 39-31 in an overtime thriller. Despite blowing a 16-point lead in the fourth quarter, Texas rallied when quarterback Quinn Ewers threw a 28-yard touchdown pass to Matthew Golden, forcing a second overtime. The Longhorns’ defense sealed the win when Andrew Mukuba intercepted a pass to end the game.

Texas had a comfortable 24-8 lead, but Arizona State’s Cam Skattebo, the standout player, wasn’t done yet. He scored a 42-yard touchdown pass and a 62-yard catch-and-run, tying the game with a 2-yard touchdown and a successful 2-point conversion. Ewers and Golden responded with a quick touchdown and a 2-point conversion, but the game remained tense.

Despite having two chances to win in regulation, Texas kicker Bert Auburn missed two field goals, sending the game into overtime. Arizona State, despite being a two-touchdown underdog, gave Texas a scare. Skattebo played through a tough fourth quarter, contributing 143 rushing yards, eight catches for 99 yards, and even a big pass play. Ewers threw for 322 yards, with Golden catching seven passes for 149 yards.

This hard-fought win kept Texas on course for the national title, but coach Steve Sarkisian emphasized that improvement is needed for the Longhorns to succeed in the next rounds. Arizona State, despite the loss, earned respect for its resilience and performance.