There’s little time left for an exciting matchup between the Arizona State Sun Devils and the Texas Longhorns, and many are already anticipating what will be an intriguing game. The stakes are high as both teams prepare to clash in the CFP quarterfinals on January 1st at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Fans are buzzing with excitement, and the atmosphere is electric.
In recent statements to the media, Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham shared his thoughts on the upcoming game and the players he has on his roster. When asked about the number of players who previously passed through the Longhorns’ program, Dillingham couldn’t help but joke about the possibility of adding Texas’ talented starting quarterback, Quinn Ewers, to his team for the important Peach Bowl matchup.
“That is 100% our philosophy. (Sarkisian’s) actually going to give us Quinn and a few other guys this week,” Dillingham said with a laugh. “So I’m fired up about that. Said he was going to give us about six or seven dudes for this game. He’s just going to let me know on game day, so I’m excited for that.” While this playful banter is entertaining, it’s important to note that the potential arrival of Ewers to the Sun Devils is simply a joke from his coach and is far from happening.
Both Arizona State and Texas have reached this stage in part due to the great work done by their coaches. Dillingham has nothing but respect for what Sarkisian has accomplished with the Longhorns, especially after having several players on his roster who were previously coached by him. “The guys we’ve gotten from Texas and coach Sark’s program have been unbelievable, and that may be why we’re going back,” Dillingham commented. “We’ve gone back to the well, and some of their guys have hit the portal, so we know what we’re getting when we’re getting a guy from that program. That’s a guy who’s worked really hard, competed, and has been pushed, and those are the things that we like to bring in.”
Currently, Arizona State has six former Longhorns on its roster: receivers Troy Omeire and Jake Smith, defensive ends Prince Dorbah and J’Mond Tapp, defensive back Xavion Alford, and defensive lineman Zac Swanson. This blend of talent showcases the connection between the two programs and highlights the impact of coaching in college football.
As the teams gear up for this pivotal game, injury updates are crucial, especially for Texas. Coach Steve Sarkisian provided insights on the health of two key players: Isaiah Bond and Cam Williams, who are both essential to the Longhorns’ success. “I think Isaiah continues to make really good progress for us,” Sarkisian said. “Obviously, we’re quite a ways out. So my goal is that coming out of Christmas, he continues to progress in a positive direction.”
Regarding Williams’ situation, Sarkisian expressed optimism about his potential return to the field: “Not as serious as we thought. That was more of a precautionary MRI, so we feel comfortable about that.” Keeping key players healthy is vital for both teams as they prepare for the intense competition ahead.
In times when the transfer portal is causing a flurry of movement in the NCAAF, any player could move from one program to another at any moment. This dynamic adds an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup. With Dillingham’s lighthearted comments about Ewers, it’s clear that the college football landscape is constantly evolving, and coaches must adapt to these changes.
Dillingham values the work done by Sarkisian, and it’s evident that the mutual respect between the two coaches runs deep. This relationship is not just about competition; it’s about recognizing the hard work and dedication that goes into building successful programs. As both teams prepare for the upcoming battle, fans can expect a game filled with passion, strategy, and perhaps a few surprises.
The excitement surrounding the Peach Bowl is palpable, and the anticipation only grows as game day approaches. Will Arizona State’s roster of former Longhorns give them an edge? Can Texas overcome injury concerns to field their best team? These questions will be answered on the field, where talent and determination will collide.
As we count down to kickoff, the college football community is buzzing with predictions and hopes. Fans are eager to see how these two storied programs will perform under pressure. With each passing day, the excitement builds, and the stakes become clearer. This isn’t just another game; it’s a chance for both teams to showcase their skills and prove their worth on one of the biggest stages in college football.
In the end, while the jokes and banter may lighten the mood, the seriousness of the competition remains. Both the Sun Devils and Longhorns are ready to leave it all on the field, and fans should prepare for a thrilling showdown that promises to be unforgettable. The Peach Bowl is not just a game; it’s a celebration of college football, filled with passion, rivalry, and the pursuit of victory.
