Texas just stomped Clemson in the playoffs, showing they’re not slowing down anytime soon. Now, all eyes are on Arizona State as they gear up to face the Longhorns. This game isn’t just about bragging rights; it’s about Kenny Dillingham’s squad proving they belong in the big leagues. A victory over Texas would not just improve ASU’s performance on the field, but it could also greatly enhance their NIL game, positioning them as a genuine threat for top recruits and significant investments. The time has come for the Sun Devils to shine!

Now this game is beyond a fight for a playoff spot because a win against the Texas Longhorns might not only give the Sun Devils an edge in the playoffs but can also increase their worth in terms of NIL and will open tons of opportunities for the players. Even J.D. PicKell thinks along the same line, saying, “Beating Texas would be a huge statement, a billboard for in-state talent showing there’s no reason to leave. It would also help “activate the valley,” bolstering NIL efforts and attracting investors.” Well, if you beat one of the top teams of the nation, that sure shows what you are capable of.

Well, Texas is the real deal; it’s the Big 12 champs and a straight-up conference powerhouse. Moreover, if Arizona State takes them down, it’s going to be a game-changer. That’s national respect, a recruiting boost, and NIL money flying their way. It’d show the Sun Devils can hang with the big dogs and prove Kenny Dillingham’s squad is on the rise. Plus, the team has exceptional talents; this will even boost its position in the game and the amount of recruits it will attract.

It’s not like Arizona has not given talented players to the football world. Even J.D. Pickell highlighted the same fact, saying, “The college football community might not fully grasp how much talent is in Arizona. Names like Bijan Robinson, Taylor Rapp, Christian Kirk, and Spencer Rattler (depending on how you feel about him) come to mind.” We all know what kind of talent this player holds and the wonders they are doing in the NFL.

But anyhow, this NIL and national recognition push is important for players as well. The Sun Devils have exceptional talents like running back Cam Skattebo, who has rushed for 1568 yards with 19 touchdowns this season. However, even he feels the recognition is not the same as others, as he says, “Nobody respects the fact that I’m the best running back in the country.” One can give them not only nationwide recognition but also add value to their performance. But is this possible?

Does Arizona State stand a chance against Texas?

The College Football Playoff is heating up! With Steve Sarkisian, the Longhorns are rolling into the quarterfinals against Arizona State, and it’s more than just a game; it’s their shot at the natty. Interesting fact: these squads have only met once before, back in 2007 at the Holiday Bowl, where Texas dropped 54 on the Sun Devils in a 54-34 beat down. So can they pull it off again? History says they got the juice, so let’s see if the Horns can handle business.

Well, at least Paul Finebaum believes that the Sun Devils don’t hold any chance against Texas, as he believes that their run game can give Arizona State a tough competition, saying, “I like Texas, but Texas is one of the hardest teams to wrap your arms around, but I think Texas’ defense is still the calling card. I like their chances. I respect the job that [Arizona State’s] done this year—it’s pretty amazing—but it looks like it ends here.” Texas’ defense did wonders against Clemson. The Longhorns clutched up in the 4th quarter! Clemson was knocking on the door, and got to the 10-yard line. But nah, the Texas defense said, “Not today!” They stuffed them on 4th & goal at the 1-yard line.

Talk about shutting it down when it mattered most! Momentum? Completely dead. However, we can’t ignore the fact that Arizona State also did something that no one ever thought of. Their story this season is so much Cinderella-coded. Jumping from 3-9 to 11-2 this season is not something every team is capable of doing, and it’s their first season in the conference game after defeating Iowa State. Even a team that is filled with remarkable talents like Cam Skattebo and Sam Leavitt can find fighting against the nation’s top defense a bit tricky.