The 2025 Territorial Cup between ASU Football and Arizona is set to be a high-stakes battle with NCAA Playoff implications on the line. Both teams enter the rivalry game riding momentum, making this clash one of the most anticipated in recent memory.

With the Sun Devils aiming for a spot in the playoffs, their performance against the Wildcats could define their season. Key players and strategic matchups will decide whether ASU can secure a decisive victory.

The Big 12 showdown promises fireworks, as both squads bring explosive offenses and gritty defenses. Fans can expect a thrilling game that could reshape the conference standings.

ASU Football vs Arizona: Will the Sun Devils Make the 2025 NCAA Playoffs? Predictions, Standings, and Rivalry Game Highlights

Is ASU Football playoff-bound after Big 12 expansion?

The 2025 season marks a pivotal year for Arizona State football as they compete in the newly expanded Big 12 Conference. With the NCAA playoffs expanding to 12 teams this season, the Sun Devils have a legitimate shot at postseason contention. Currently sitting in the top half of the conference standings, ASU’s path to the playoffs hinges on their performance in rivalry games like the upcoming Territorial Cup against Arizona.

Recent projections show the Big 12 could send 2-3 teams to the expanded playoff format. ASU’s key victories over ranked opponents have positioned them as potential dark horse candidates. Their defense has been particularly impressive, ranking in the top 25 nationally for total yards allowed.

The expanded playoff format changes everything for programs like ASU. Now they don’t need to be perfect – just good enough to crack the top 12.

But the competition is so fierce! Every game feels like a must-win now that more teams have playoff hopes.

What time is the ASU vs Arizona game and how to watch?

The 2025 Territorial Cup between Arizona State and Arizona is scheduled for Friday night at 7:30 PM MST at Sun Devil Stadium. The game will be broadcast nationally on FOX Sports 1, with streaming available through the FOX Sports app.

This year’s matchup marks the first time the rivalry game is being played as a Big 12 conference matchup, adding even more significance to the historic rivalry. Fans should arrive early for pre-game festivities, including the traditional “Devil Walk” two hours before kickoff.

Key viewing details:

• Date: November 28, 2025
• Time: 7:30 PM MST
• Location: Sun Devil Stadium, Tempe, AZ
• TV: FOX Sports 1
• Streaming: FOX Sports App

Can ASU cover the spread against Arizona in the rivalry game?

Sportsbooks have installed Arizona State as 3.5-point favorites in this year’s Territorial Cup matchup. The line has moved slightly since opening at -4, suggesting some late money coming in on the Wildcats.

Historically, home teams have covered the spread in 60% of Territorial Cup games played at Sun Devil Stadium. ASU’s defense matches up well against Arizona’s passing attack, but the Wildcats’ improved rushing game could keep this one close throughout.

The key will be whether ASU can establish their running game early. If they can control the clock and keep Arizona’s offense off the field, they should cover comfortably.

I’m worried about Arizona’s red zone defense though – they’ve been surprisingly good in tight situations this year.

How does ASU’s defense rank nationally in key statistics?

The Sun Devils have built their 2025 success on the back of a stingy defense that ranks among the nation’s best in several categories:

This defensive unit has been particularly effective in the second half of games, allowing just 8.3 points per game after halftime. Their ability to make adjustments has been a key factor in several close victories this season.

What are the playoff implications for the Territorial Cup winner?

The winner of this year’s Arizona-ASU showdown will significantly boost their resume for playoff consideration. With both teams hovering around the top 20 in national rankings, this game could serve as a de facto playoff elimination game.

For Arizona State, a win would likely move them into the top 15 and keep them in contention for a New Year’s Six bowl game even if they fall short of the playoff. The loser will likely need help from other conference results to maintain any realistic playoff hope.

What makes this rivalry special is that both teams actually have something meaningful to play for this late in the season. It’s not just state pride – it’s potential postseason glory.

I still think both teams need at least one more signature win after this to really cement their playoff cases.

Who are the key players to watch in the ASU-Arizona game?

Several impact players could decide the outcome of this year’s Territorial Cup:

For ASU:

• QB Raleek Sims – Dual-threat leader averaging 285 total yards per game
• LB Eric Moore – Defensive anchor with 8.5 sacks this season
• WR Jordyn Tyson – Big-play threat averaging 18.4 yards per catch

For Arizona:

• QB Noah Fifita – Accurate passer completing 68% of attempts
• RB Rayshon Luke – Speedster with four 100-yard games
• CB Tacario Davis – Shutdown corner with 5 INTs

What’s the current Big 12 standings scenario?

Entering rivalry week, the Big 12 standings show a tight race at the top:

With Oklahoma likely securing one playoff spot, the Territorial Cup winner could position themselves as the conference’s second-best team. The loser will need other results to break their way for bowl game positioning.