The No. 7-rated Texas Tech Red Raiders were surprised by Arizona State University, who pulled off one of the biggest surprises of the college football season and stunned the team with a 26-22 victory in a dramatic fashion. What appeared to be an additional difficult challenge to the Sun Devils was actually a statement win. One that may change the perception of the season, the coaching staff of ASU, and its future in the Big 12.
A game that bucked the trend
Going into the game, the team of Arizona State had all the odds against it. Texas Tech entered the unbeaten season and was averaging more than 550 yards of offense a game and was safely in the Top 10. A lot of observers had forecasted a blowout, but ASU had other things in mind.
Sam Leavitt, the quarterback, had a brilliant comeback after his injury. He displayed a degree of leadership and composure that was much higher than his level of experience. He made 319 yards and led the ASU attack with ease and accuracy. He timed it at the right time with a last-minute drive that included a one-yard touchdown run by Raleek Brown, capping off the upset with only 34 seconds left.
Mountain America Stadium echoed with the crowd that felt that this was not just a win; it was a statement.
A turning point for Kenny Dillingham’s program
To the head coach, Coach Kenny Dillingham, this win can be considered the highlight of his tenure to date. The adjustment to the Big 12 had not been smooth sailing, but this match demonstrated growth, discipline, and strength in ASU. The game strategy of the coaching staff was brilliant: they restricted the deep-ball attack of Texas Tech, made errors of the reserve quarterback, and provided an almost flawless final drive.
Dillingham was a sideline personality and an emotional leader whose energy and emotions were felt during the game. He has called it a program-changing moment after the win, and not in vain. ASU did not merely beat a Top-10; they did it with confidence, poise, and balance on both sides of the ball.
Defensive backbone: When it counted, stand your ground
A lot of the credit is also due to the new look of the ASU defense, consisting of youngers who have selflessly adjusted to the system of Dillingham. Players such as Prince Dorbah, Xavion Alford, and Tristan Monday made some crucial plays that kept the Texas Tech explosive offense at bay.
To the Red Raiders, the defeat was a bitter experience that showed no match is assured. Their offensive outburst cost them dearly, although they were explosive, as they had turnovers and missed tackles, and played conservatively towards the end of the game. Their season of dreams and possible playoff campaign was significantly injured.