ASU Earns Bowl Eligibility With Convincing Win Over UCF - Arizona Sports

Arizona State University secured its third bowl eligibility on Saturday, defeating UCF 26-13 in a game that tested the Sun Devils’ resilience both on and off the field.

With this victory, the Sun Devils move to 6-4 overall and 4-3 in the Big 12, marking their first instance of back-to-back wins this season.

The road to Orlando was anything but routine. The team arrived at the stadium approximately 4.5 hours before kickoff, a delay forced by a nationwide Federal Aviation Administration ground stoppage that prevented their scheduled flight on Friday night. Despite the disrupted travel schedule, the Sun Devils managed to ground a UCF offense that entered the contest averaging more than 30 points per game.

.@cardaemack33 runs it in to extend the lead 😈 📺 ESPNU pic.twitter.com/F7nvNoqmCF

— Post by @ASUFootball on X

The scoring began in the second quarter through a bit of tactical creativity. ASU utilized a double pass, with running back Cardae Mack taking a wildcat snap and flipping it to wide receiver Derek Eusebio, who then connected with tight end Anthony Miller for a 28-yard gain. That drive culminated in a touchdown run by Marquis Gillis.

While the offense found its rhythm, the defense dictated the game’s tempo. The game changed just before halftime when defensive lineman Jalen Thompson forced a sack fumble on UCF quarterback Alonza Barnett III, which was recovered by Albert Smith. That turnover allowed ASU to extend their lead to 16-7 heading into the break.

Big play Harris 🤝 📺 ESPNU pic.twitter.com/AvEFNRnY2p

— Post by @ASUFootball on X

The second half saw the Sun Devils pull away, holding UCF to only one late touchdown in the fourth quarter. Mack continued his productive season, recording his fourth 100-yard game on 22 carries. Quarterback Jake Fette completed 21 of 36 passes for 196 yards, showing composure under pressure despite some erratic throws.

For UCF, the loss complicates their postseason path. The Knights now sit at 5-5 overall and 3-4 in conference play with only two regular-season games remaining against Iowa State and Colorado.

MOVE THE CHAINS ⛓️ pic.twitter.com/eDEc6tCWtT

— Post by @ASUFootball on X

The defensive effort remained the headline of the night, holding the Knights to just 13 points. ASU’s ability to force turnovers and control the clock in the final quarter proved decisive. Wide receiver Reed Harris contributed to the effort with a standout performance, hauling in seven catches for 80 yards, including a contested deep ball that showed the team's physicality.

This win provides ASU with much-needed momentum as they approach the final stretch of the season. By securing their bowl spot early, the Sun Devils have overcome a major obstacle. The challenge now shifts to maintaining this defensive intensity as they prepare for their upcoming conference opponents.