In one of the most anticipated Territorial Cup matchups in a decade, the No. 25 Arizona Wildcats delivered a stunning 23-7 victory over No. 20 Arizona State on Friday night, dismantling the reigning Big 12 champions' hopes of returning to the conference title game. The win capped off a remarkable turnaround season for Arizona under coach Brent Brennan, who watched his team's suffocating defense force five turnovers and limit the Sun Devils to just 214 total yards of offense.
A Defense That Dominated from Start to Finish
Arizona's defensive performance was nothing short of spectacular. The Wildcats held Arizona State to just 15 yards in the first quarter, setting the tone for what would become a defensive showcase. The Sun Devils' offense struggled mightily throughout the evening, committing three interceptions and two fumbles that consistently put their defense in difficult positions.
Noah Fifita led the Wildcats' offense with 286 passing yards and a touchdown, while the defense did the heavy lifting. Dalton Johnson sealed the victory with an interception near midfield, capping Arizona's fifth straight win. The defensive turnaround has been particularly impressive given that Arizona ranked near the bottom nationally in defensive categories just a year ago—now they're in the top 25 in numerous defensive metrics.
Arizona State's Collapse in a Must-Win Situation
For Arizona State, the loss represents a crushing blow to their championship aspirations. The Sun Devils entered the game with a slim chance of reaching the Big 12 title game, but Arizona's relentless defense made sure that opportunity evaporated quickly. Arizona State tight end
Chamon Metayer acknowledged the team's struggles, saying:
"The challenge was us - we just had to get out of our own way. By the time we figured it out, it was too late."The reigning Big 12 champions managed only one touchdown in the contest, a 27-yard run by Sims in the first half, while kicker Jesus Gomez's 49-yard field goal attempt clanked off the right goal post. This marked a dramatic reversal from last year's Territorial Cup game, when Arizona State dominated Arizona 49-7 in Tucson.
What's Next for Both Programs
Arizona (9-3, 6-3 Big 12) will now play in a bowl game for the second time in three years, continuing their resurgence under Brennan's leadership. The Wildcats have now taken the all-time series lead 52-46-1 over Arizona State, with the 100th meeting between the rivals coming next season.
Arizona State (8-4, 6-3 Big 12) will likely be headed to a lower-tier bowl game after reaching the College Football Playoff last season. The Sun Devils' regular season ended with a disappointing thud, leaving questions about how quickly they can bounce back from this defensive collapse.
Coach Brent Brennan summed up the magnitude of the victory perfectly:
"I'm so proud of this Arizona football team. Nobody thought they could. Check us out now."1.
Arizona forces 5 turnovers, spoils rival Arizona State's Big 12 repeat title hopes with 23-7 win2.
Breaking Down No. 25 Arizona's Win Over No. 20 ASU3.
ASU loses Territorial Cup game to Arizona in ugly fashion4.
Arizona's defense dominates in Territorial Cup win at ASU
Sources
1. Arizona Wildcats vs. Arizona State Sun Devils Live Score and Stats
2. Breaking Down No. 25 Arizona's Win Over No. 20 ASU
3. How to Watch Arizona State vs. Arizona: Time, TV Channel, Live Stream – November 28, 2025
4. ASU loses Territorial Cup game to Arizona in ugly fashion
5. #25 Arizona vs. #20 Arizona State Extended Highlights - YouTube
6. Arizona’s defense dominates in Territorial Cup win at ASU
7. Arizona vs. Arizona State Prediction, Friday CFB Picks for Territorial Cup
8. No. 25 Arizona vs. No. 20 ASU Live Thread
9. No. 25 Arizona Wildcats vs. No. 20 Arizona State Sun Devils Highlights
10. #25 Arizona vs. #20 Arizona State Game Highlights - YouTube
