TEMPE — Arizona State heads into the final week of its season after climbing five spots to No. 20 in the latest College Football Playoff rankings.
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Nov 22, 2025; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Jeff Sims (2) prepares to pass the ball in the first quarter against the Colorado Buffaloes at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
The rankings highlight a late-season surge from the Sun Devils, who have won three straight, including their most recent victory over Colorado on Nov. 22. The jump also reflects continued belief that the program can contend for a second straight Big 12 title.
For a team that entered the year with high expectations but battled turbulence from underperformance and injuries, the Sun Devils remain in the national spotlight. Led by head coach Kenny Dillingham, they continue to show resilience and an ability to rebound.
However, the ranking doesn’t tell the whole story entering the final week of the season.
Nov 22, 2025; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Colorado Buffaloes defensive back Makari Vickers (10) tackles Arizona State Sun Devils running back Raleek Brown (3) in the first quarter at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
ASU not only needs to beat Arizona, which debuted at No. 25 in the CFP rankings, on Friday to stay in contention for a conference championship berth, but it must also rely on other outcomes across the league. While not ideal, the Sun Devils have the tools to handle business against the Wildcats, especially with key players back and a clicking offense.
With the season ending in a storied rivalry and both teams ranked and fighting to remain in the Big 12 title race, this year’s matchup carries heightened significance. A win for either side brings added meaning and urgency.
Nov 22, 2025; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils kicker Jesus Gomez (35) prepares to kick a successful field goal in the first quarter against the Colorado Buffaloes at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Arizona State and Arizona face off in the Territorial Cup on Friday, Nov. 28, at 7 p.m.
November 2️⃣5️⃣ College Football Playoff Selection Committee Rankings
2️⃣0️⃣. Arizona State // @ASUFootball#CFBPlayoff 🏈🏆 pic.twitter.com/xAo6nKwKon
— College Football Playoff (@CFBPlayoff) November 26, 2025
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
