BYU vs. Arizona State College Football Week 13 Picks: Can the Sun Devils Get It Done at Home?

BYU’s First Loss of the Season

Kansas edged BYU 17-13 on Saturday, handing the Cougars their first loss of the season.

BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff completed 18 of 28 passes for 192 yards and a touchdown, but he also threw an interception. LJ Martin contributed 76 yards on 15 carries, and Chase Roberts added five receptions for 71 yards. However, BYU struggled offensively in the second half, managing only a field goal.

The Cougars opened the third quarter with a grueling 17-play drive that consumed 10:26 and ended with a 35-yard field goal by Will Ferrin, their only points in the second half. Despite totaling 354 yards, BYU faltered in critical moments, converting just 2 of 4 red zone opportunities and failing to score touchdowns on all four trips inside the 20.

BYU’s final drive reached the Kansas 15-yard line with two minutes remaining, but the offense stalled after a false start and a series of short gains. On fourth down, Chase Roberts was tackled three yards shy of a first down, sealing the win for Kansas with 46 seconds left.

“They had a really good game plan,” BYU head coach Kalani Sitake said. “Looking at the stats, we just didn’t make enough plays and (made) way too many mistakes to come out with the victory.”

Arizona State Took Care of Business

Sam Leavitt delivered a standout performance, throwing for 275 yards and three touchdowns, while Jordyn Tyson hauled in 12 catches for 176 yards and two scores as Arizona State defeated Kansas State 24-14 on Saturday night.

Cam Skattebo, back from injury, added 73 rushing yards on 25 carries, and helped the Sun Devils establish a commanding 21-0 halftime lead.

Arizona State took full advantage of Kansas State’s miscues, with Leavitt connecting with Tyson for a 30-yard touchdown to make it 14-0. Shortly after, Leavitt found a wide-open Chamon Metayer for a 16-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 21-0 early in the second quarter.

“Props to our defense for creating takeaways and putting us in a situation where we didn’t have to go the length of the field,” Leavitt said. “We just executed on offense.”

Key Matchups

Arizona State boasts a dynamic passing attack behind Leavitt, while BYU has shown resilience on defense and the ability to grind out long drives. However, both teams have been inconsistent in critical situations, making this matchup a test of who can execute better when it matters most.

Sam Leavitt vs. BYU’s Secondary

Leavitt’s 275-yard, three-touchdown performance against Kansas State showcased his ability to attack downfield, particularly with Tyson as a go-to target. BYU’s secondary, however, has proven capable of limiting big plays, allowing only one passing touchdown against Kansas.

If BYU can pressure Leavitt and force him into quick throws, they may be able to disrupt Arizona State’s rhythm. Conversely, if Leavitt finds time, his connection with Tyson could spell trouble for the Cougars.

BYU’s Red Zone Efficiency vs. Arizona State’s Opportunistic Defense

BYU struggled in the red zone against Kansas, converting only 2 of 4 opportunities and failing to score touchdowns inside the 20. Arizona State, meanwhile, capitalized on Kansas State’s mistakes and turned them into points. If BYU continues to falter in the red zone, Arizona State’s defense could turn key stops into offensive momentum.

Cam Skattebo vs. BYU’s Front Seven

Skattebo’s 73 rushing yards against Kansas State helped balance the Sun Devils’ attack. BYU, however, held Kansas to just 17 points despite giving up 354 total yards. The Cougars’ ability to contain Skattebo and force Arizona State into a one-dimensional passing game could be pivotal in slowing the Sun Devils.

Jake Retzlaff vs. Arizona State’s Pass Rush

Retzlaff was efficient for BYU, throwing for 192 yards and a touchdown, but his interception and the offense’s inability to close drives hurt the Cougars. Arizona State’s defense showed it could capitalize on mistakes, and if Retzlaff is pressured into errors, the Sun Devils could take control. Retzlaff’s ability to spread the ball and sustain drives will be key to keeping BYU in the game.

Special Teams and Turnovers

Both teams have shown vulnerabilities that could be exploited. Arizona State thrives on turning mistakes into points, while BYU’s methodical style has been prone to turnovers or stalled drives at critical moments. Blocked punts, key fumbles, or big special teams plays could tip the balance in this contest.

The Pick

Expect a closely contested game where BYU’s ball-control approach clashes with Arizona State’s explosive passing game. The Cougars’ struggles in the red zone and Arizona State’s ability to capitalize on mistakes could make the difference.

BYU’s defense and their methodical drives could frustrate Arizona State if the Sun Devils fail to convert early opportunities. However, Arizona State’s edge in offensive firepower, particularly with Leavitt and Tyson, should give the Sun Devils the upper hand late.

College Football Pick: Arizona State -3 (-125) at BetOnline 

Arizona State -3 (-125)

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