Territorial Cup showdown: Arizona vs. Arizona State in a ranked rivalry clash originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Territorial Cup has always carried a different kind of heat, but this year’s Arizona vs. Arizona State matchup brings an extra layer of national relevance. With No. 25 Arizona traveling to No. 20 Arizona State, both teams arrive ranked and motivated, and that alone sets the tone for one of the most competitive chapters in this long, bitter rivalry.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementArizona leads the all-time series 51–47–1, and their offensive identity has powered this year’s resurgence. The Wildcats enter averaging 32 points per game, good for 27th in the nation, and when they’re in rhythm, they’re as dangerous as anyone in the Pac-12. Defensively, they’ve been quietly strong, allowing just 21.7 points per game (31st nationally), a balance that gives them confidence in tight matchups.
Arizona State, meanwhile, has become a grind-it-out team that finds ways to win late. The Sun Devils score 25.1 points per game (77th nationally) but make up for it with timely stops and a defense giving up 23.4 points per game, ranking 45th in the country. At home, that defense tends to play with an extra edge.
Rivalry games rarely follow the script, and this one has all the ingredients: high stakes, postseason implications, and the possibility of momentum-defining moments. Expect emotion, unpredictability, and a loud Tempe crowd ready to tilt the field. The Territorial Cup is never just another game, and once again, it’s set to deliver.
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