EL PASO — Arizona State’s return to the Sun Bowl comes with history as it takes on Duke in its final matchup of the 2025 season.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This isn’t the first time the two programs have shared a December showcase.
Dec 6, 2025; Charlotte, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils tight end Jeremiah Hasley (85) celebrates a touchdown against the Virginia Cavaliers during the 2025 ACC Championship game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
In 2014, a similar battle of the Devils unfolded when the Sun Devils defeated the Blue Devils in a 36-31 thriller. Now, 11 years later, Duke seeks retribution from that bowl meeting as Arizona State looks to avoid it.
The Sun Bowl offers ASU a chance to reinforce momentum heading into the offseason. After a roller-coaster season and changes on the horizon, the Sun Devils can help shape their narrative with a win over the ACC champions.
Nov 28, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Jeff Sims (2) celebrates with wide receiver Derek Eusebio (83) after running for a touchdown against the Arizona Wildcats in the first half during the 99th Territorial Cup at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Entering the bowl at 8-4, Arizona State can lean on its defensive disruption and a willingness to play fast on every snap.
ASU thrives when it takes control of the tempo early. While the Sun Devils will be without a few key starters, the team generates pressure defensively as a collective. An emphasis on field position and offensive discipline will be crucial.
But the Sun Bowl isn’t just about adding one more win to the season.
Dec 6, 2025; Charlotte, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils kicker Todd Pelino (29) kicks a field goal during the second half against the Virginia Cavaliers during the 2025 ACC Championship game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
It’s the culmination of a year’s worth of work and a chance to say goodbye to the seniors who helped lead the program. After the season they endured, the Sun Devils will want to finish on a high note and prove they remain a program to watch. It’s the final time this group will take the field together.
Arizona State’s 4-2-1 record in the Sun Bowl provides a historical edge, but how the Sun Devils choose to conclude the season will ultimately determine whether this year ends on a high note.
They’re GRRRREAT! @Takeemdeep7 pic.twitter.com/J1dmg3Q2uY
— Sun Devil Football (@ASUFootball) December 31, 2025
Arizona State and Duke kick off on Wednesday, Dec. 31, at 12 p.m.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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