Regardless of what happens in the Peach Bowl, Cam Skattebo and Arizona State have already defied the odds. This remarkable journey began when Skattebo transferred from FCS Sacramento State, where he transformed into a superstar during his second season with the Sun Devils. His combination of powerful runs and clutch performances propelled him to a top-five finish in Heisman Trophy voting, showcasing his undeniable talent on the field.
Arizona State’s Stunning Transformation
It’s no coincidence that Arizona State exceeded expectations this season. After a disappointing 3-9 record in 2023, they made a remarkable leap to become conference champions in their inaugural season in the Big 12. This turnaround is a testament to the hard work and determination of the entire team. A playoff upset of Texas could elevate the Sun Devils from a fun story to serious title contenders, further solidifying their status in college football.
Skattebo’s NFL Draft Outlook
As the season approaches its conclusion, Skattebo’s focus may soon shift to the NFL. With the draft on the horizon in April, his performance this season has certainly put him on the radar. However, despite his standout season, he doesn’t currently rank among the top running backs in the 2025 NFL Draft. According to the NFL Mock Draft Database’s consensus rankings, Skattebo is positioned as the No. 147 overall prospect, which, while an improvement, still places him outside the elite tier.
That being said, this ranking marks a significant jump for Skattebo, who wasn’t even on NFL radars until he began to shine this season. Being ranked No. 147 puts him in the conversation for a mid-round pick, and with recent success stories like Bucky Irving—who transitioned from a mid-round pick to a 1,000-yard rusher with the Buccaneers—Skattebo might find himself in a similar position. After all, isn’t it all about seizing opportunities when they arise?
Understanding Skattebo’s Playing Style
So, what makes Skattebo stand out? While his production has been impressive, his draft stock isn’t as high as one might expect. This is primarily because he doesn’t fit the typical NFL mold for a bell-cow running back. He lacks elite speed and isn’t the most athletically gifted player on the field. Instead, he thrives on strength, often bouncing off defenders and delivering punishing runs that leave a lasting impact.
Skattebo might be better suited as a change-of-pace back in the NFL, reminiscent of legendary players like Mike Alstott. His style may not align with the traditional every-down back, but his ability to contribute in various roles could make him a valuable asset for an NFL team. After all, isn’t versatility a key trait in today’s game?
Top Running Backs in the 2025 NFL Draft
As we look ahead to the upcoming draft, it’s important to consider who Skattebo will be competing against. The running back position is experiencing a renaissance in the NFL, and the 2025 draft class is no exception. After a lackluster showing in 2024, where only four running backs were selected in the first three rounds, the buzz around this year’s class is palpable. SN’s big board currently features nine running backs ranked within the top 90 overall prospects.
Leading the charge is Ashton Jeanty from Boise State, who sits at No. 7 overall. Following closely are Ohio State’s Quinshon Judkins, Iowa’s Kaleb Johnson, and North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton. While Skattebo faces tough competition, his impressive season has forced him onto NFL radars, and there’s no denying that he has the potential to make waves.
What Lies Ahead for Skattebo?
As the Peach Bowl approaches, the excitement surrounding Skattebo and Arizona State continues to grow. Regardless of the outcome, Skattebo’s journey has already been remarkable. His ability to rise from the FCS ranks to Heisman consideration is a testament to his hard work and determination.
Looking ahead, the NFL Draft will be a pivotal moment for Skattebo. Will he be able to leverage his strong performances into a mid-round selection? Or will he surprise everyone and climb higher up the draft boards? One thing is for sure: Skattebo’s story is just beginning, and fans will be eagerly watching to see where his journey takes him next.
In the world of college football, stories like Skattebo’s remind us of the power of perseverance and the thrill of competition. As we gear up for the playoffs and the draft, let’s celebrate the incredible talent and determination that players like Cam Skattebo bring to the game. The future is bright, and the possibilities are endless!
