Leavitt Leads Sun Devils to Thrilling Comeback to Stay Perfect in Big 12 Play
Arizona State pulled off one of the most exciting comebacks of the college football season Friday Night in Tempe. Down 17-0 early, the Sun Devils clawed their way back to edge out TCU 27-24 behind the leadership of Quarterback Sam Leavitt, improving to 4-1 and a perfect 2-0 in Big 12 play.
This game had everything that makes college football unforgettable—huge momentum swings, clutch plays, and a roar from over 53,000 fans that you could feel in your chest. For TCU, the loss stung, dropping them to 3-1 and 0-1 in conference play, marking their first setback of the season.
It all came down to the final moments of the game. With 1:14 left, Arizona State kicker Jesus Gomez drilled a 23-yard field goal to give the Sun Devils their first lead of the night. Moments later, defensive back Martell Hughes sealed the win with a game-saving interception, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
Sam Leavitt Shines in Win
Leavitt looked every bit of the team leader and star on Friday. Leavittt threw for 278 yards and two touchdowns on 26-of-38 passing, connecting with Jordyn Tyson eight times for 126 yards. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs kept Arizona State in the fight. Leavitt’s touchdown pass to Tyson in the second half was a perfect example of his poise and playmaking ability, even under pressure.
ASU Defense Leads Second-Half Comeback
The defensive play of the night belonged to Hughes. With less than a minute left and TCU driving toward a potential game-winning score, Hughes intercepted Josh Hoover’s pass, allowing Arizona State to run out the clock. It was a fitting end to a defensive turnaround that saw the Sun Devils recover from a rough start to dominate the second half.Â
After giving up 17 points in the first quarter, Arizona State’s defense found its groove, applying relentless pressure on Hoover and forcing critical turnovers. The Sun Devils registered multiple sacks and a key fumble recovery by Prince Dorbah, flipping the momentum and shutting down TCU’s offense when it mattered most.
