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After a productive bye week, the #21 Sun Devils (4-1, 2-0) head to Salt Lake City to face Utah at Rice-Eccles Stadium—marking their first visit since a crushing 55–3 defeat in Kenny Dillingham’s debut season. Fast forward two years, and ASU fans are looking at a completely transformed team from that dreary November morning.
This time around, the Sun Devils are riding momentum and aiming to flip the script. Over the next few minutes, we’ll break down the key factors ASU must execute to avoid a repeat of their last trip north.
Quick Stats to Know:
- Defense: ASU ranks 6th in total yards allowed (321 YPG); Utah sits at 4th (300.4 YPG).
- Offense: ASU is 10th in total yards gained (424.4 YPG); Utah again ranks 4th (469.2 YPG).
Context Matters:
Utah’s only major test came in their Big XII opener vs. Texas Tech, where they lost by 24 after a tight 10–3 game heading into the 4th quarter—compounded by Devon Dampier’s injury. ASU, meanwhile, stumbled early but has since found its rhythm with gritty wins over Baylor and TCU, both preseason Top 6 teams in the Big XII.
Now, let’s dive into the fun stuff—what ASU needs to do to pull off a statement win in enemy territory.
ASU’s Battle Plan: How to Flip the Script in Salt Lake
Starting Fast:
ASU has been digging itself into early-game holes lately—slow starts on both offense and defense have become a troubling trend. And against a powerhouse like Utah, that’s a recipe for disaster. You can’t afford to fall behind the sticks or the scoreboard and expect to claw your way back.
This game hinges on Sam Leavitt settling in fast. The offense needs to strike early and often. A turnover, a three-and-out, or a red zone stall in the first quarter? That’s all Utah needs to seize momentum and never let go. The Utes are built to punish mistakes and suffocate hope.
Let’s talk red zone efficiency. ASU ranks 66th out of 134 teams with an 86.36% conversion rate. Sounds okay—until you realize that of 22 red zone trips, only 8 ended in touchdowns. The other 11? Field goals. That’s not going to cut it against Utah. You can’t settle for three when you need seven.
If the Sun Devils want a shot, they have to flip the script: start fast, finish strong, and make every red zone visit count. Do that, and they’ve got a real chance to take down the Utes.
Force Devon Dampier to be a passer:
The Utes have a new look in the QB room, and it’s Devon Dampier stepping into the spotlight after transferring from New Mexico. In five games this season, he’s been a threat on the ground—averaging 11 rushes for 52 yards and punching in two rushing touchdowns. But when he’s forced to be a true pocket passer? That’s where the cracks show.
All three of Dampier’s interceptions have come against Big XII opponents, and all of them happened when he couldn’t escape and had to throw from the pocket. That’s the blueprint for ASU.
If CJ Fite and Jacob Konagaika can collapse the edges and force Dampier to step up, and Brian Ward dials up the occasional blitz with Keith Abney to keep him honest, the Sun Devils can control the tempo. This defense has already proven it can rattle elite QBs—forcing four interceptions and racking up 19 sacks this season. That sack total ranks #4 in the nation, trailing only two SEC teams and one from the MAC.
If ASU brings the pressure and keeps Dampier from freelancing, they’ll be in a great spot to take control and close out strong.
Tote the rock:
If the Sun Devils are going to win this one, it’s going to be on the legs of the running back room. With rain, wind, and even hail in the forecast, throwing the ball might not be a realistic option as the game wears on. That puts the spotlight squarely on Raleek Brown, whose shiftiness and ability to hit the hole and take it to the house could be the difference-maker.
ASU has been dominant on the ground this season, averaging nearly 217 rushing yards per game with a strong 5.2 yards per carry. That’s not just good—it’s the kind of production that can control the clock, wear down a defense, and keep the chains moving.
And Utah? They’ve shown vulnerability against the run. The Utes are giving up 141 rushing yards per game and 4.1 yards per carry. Add in the six rushing touchdowns they’ve allowed, and it’s clear: this is where ASU can strike.
Expect a heavy dose of Raleek Brown, Kyson Brown, and Kanye Udoh, especially in third-down and goal-to-go situations. And while the run game will be the foundation, don’t sleep on the passing attack. With McClain and Moss returning, defenses can’t just key in on Jordyn Tyson anymore. That opens up the field and gives Leavitt more options if the weather allows for it.
ASU’s path to victory is clear: pound the rock, control the tempo, and let the backs lead the way.
Two Years Later, a Chance to Rewrite the Narrative
Two years ago, ASU walked out of Rice-Eccles Stadium with a 55–3 loss and a long offseason ahead. This Saturday, they return with a ranked team, a confident quarterback, and a defense that’s among the nation’s best in sacks. The Sun Devils aren’t just looking to compete—they’re looking to make a statement.
The formula is clear: start fast, pressure Dampier into mistakes, and lean on a ground game that’s been punishing defenses all season. If ASU executes, they won’t just erase the memory of that blowout—they’ll replace it with one of the biggest wins of the Kenny Dillingham era.
Salt Lake City is the stage. The Sun Devils are ready. Let’s see if they can flip the script.
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