TEMPE — Arizona State keeps its Big 12 Championship aspirations alive, defeating West Virginia, 25-23, behind another solid performance from quarterback Jeff Sims.
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West Virginia Mountaineers Kekoura Tarnue (14) attempts to block Arizona State Sun Devils Derek Eusebio (83) during a game at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe on Nov. 15, 2025. © Diannie Chavez/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Since Sam Leavitt’s absence due to injury, Sims has meshed well offensively. His approach, not only passing, but on his feet, has made him an excellent stand-in for Leavitt.
In the win against the Mountaineers, Sims completed 19 passes of 28 attempts for 207 yards and three touchdowns. He also had 19 carries for 77 yards.
Arizona State Sun Devils Albert Smith III (3) runs with the ball during a game against the West Virginia Mountaineers at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe on Nov. 15, 2025. © Diannie Chavez/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
“Eighteen months ago, I said our team has two NFL quarterbacks,” head coach Kenny Dilliingham said post-game. “I think some people laughed at me or thought I was a little bit crazy. [I] still believe that.”
Sims’ growth this year has been one to watch. What looked to be another second-string season for the 23-year-old has turned into an opportunity he hasn’t missed. He has won two straight games with Saturday’s victory.
While he played in only four games in 2024, and started just once, Sims has answered the call and given the team stability following Leavitt’s injury.
Arizona State Sun Devils Keyshaun Elliott (44) tackles West Virginia Mountaineers Scotty Fox Jr. (15) during a game at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe on Nov. 15, 2025. © Diannie Chavez/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
So far this season, Sims has completed 50.7% of his passes for 359 yards, his most in the past two seasons. While Arizona State still has work to do to reach the heights it hit in 2024, Sims’ emergence as a dark horse standout is undoubtedly keeping ASU in contention to defend its Big 12 title.
“Jeff Sims is a guy who can play on Sundays,” Dillingham said. “I absolutely believe that and for him to be able to get his opportunity is super cool… He’s a phenomenal human.”
CATCH HIM IF YOU CAN 😮💨
📺 TNT pic.twitter.com/uD7QHsWIob
— Sun Devil Football (@ASUFootball) November 15, 2025
Arizona State will head back on the road to face Colorado on Saturday, Nov. 22.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
Arizona State faces a must-win matchup against West Virginia
