Arizona, December 11, 2025
The Arizona State Sun Devils and Arizona Wildcats are gearing up for their postseason bowl games, showcasing the state’s vibrant college football scene. The Sun Devils face the Duke Blue Devils in the Sun Bowl, while the Wildcats will compete against the SMU Mustangs in the Holiday Bowl. Both teams have had successful seasons, filled with key victories and moments that have energized their respective fan bases. Their performances not only promote local pride but also underline the health and competitiveness of college athletics in Arizona.
Phoenix, AZ — The Arizona State Sun Devils and Arizona Wildcats are both poised to make their marks in postseason play as they prepare for their respective bowl games in the upcoming weeks. This representation highlights the vibrant state of college football in Arizona and showcases the competitive spirit of both teams.
Sun Devils Ready for the Sun Bowl
The Arizona State Sun Devils will face the Duke Blue Devils in the 92nd Annual Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl on December 31, 2025, at Sun Bowl Stadium in El Paso, Texas. Kickoff is set for noon Mountain Time, with CBS broadcasting the event. Both teams arrive with impressive records; Arizona State boasts an 8-4 record, coming off their Big 12 Championship victory in 2024 and a successful run in the College Football Playoff. Meanwhile, Duke stands at 8-5 following their recent triumph in the Atlantic Coast Conference Championship.
Wildcats to Compete in the Holiday Bowl
On January 2, 2026, the University of Arizona Wildcats will take the field against the Southern Methodist University (SMU) Mustangs in the 46th Annual Holiday Bowl at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California. The Wildcats enter the matchup on a five-game winning streak and bring a 9-3 record. With this being their third appearance in the Holiday Bowl, the Wildcats aim to capitalize on their previous experiences at the prestigious event, having previously participated in 1998 and 2009.
Recent Rivalry Game Highlights
The rivalry between the Sun Devils and Wildcats was reignited on November 28, 2025, when the Arizona Wildcats claimed a decisive victory, defeating the Sun Devils 23-7. The Wildcats displayed a formidable defense, forcing five turnovers and limiting Arizona State to just 214 total yards. Quarterback Noah Fifita’s performance, throwing for 286 yards and a touchdown, was instrumental in securing the win.
Opportunities for Community Engagement
As both teams prepare for their postseason games, the upcoming bowl appearances present significant opportunities for the local community to rally around their athletes. Success on the national stage often translates into enhanced visibility and engagement, encouraging support from fans and local businesses alike. The presence of Arizona State and Arizona in these bowl games fosters a sense of pride and unity among residents in Phoenix and beyond.
Strengthening Arizona’s Athletic Landscape
The achievements of both Arizona college football programs underscore the positive trajectory of collegiate athletics in the state. Efforts from university administrations, private investors, and community organizations have further bolstered the on-field performance and overall development of these programs. This environment of support is essential in nurturing athletic talent and promoting healthy local competition, paving the way for future success.
Conclusion
With both the Arizona State Sun Devils and Arizona Wildcats set for bowl games, the coming weeks promise to be an exciting time for sports enthusiasts across Phoenix and the entire state. These events not only highlight collegiate athleticism but also serve as a platform for community engagement and collective pride in Arizona’s sports landscape. As fans gear up for the games, the focus shifts to supporting local teams in their quests for victory and celebrating the rich athletic tradition that defines Arizona college football.
What are the upcoming bowl games for Arizona State and Arizona?
The Arizona State Sun Devils are set to play against the Duke Blue Devils in the 92nd Annual Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl on December 31, 2025, in El Paso, Texas. The Arizona Wildcats will face the Southern Methodist University (SMU) Mustangs in the 46th Annual Holiday Bowl on January 2, 2026, in San Diego, California.
When was the last time Arizona State and Arizona played each other?
The most recent meeting between the Arizona Wildcats and the Arizona State Sun Devils occurred on November 28, 2025, with the Wildcats winning 23-7.
What are the records of Arizona State and Arizona going into their bowl games?
Arizona State enters the Sun Bowl with an 8-4 record, while Arizona enters the Holiday Bowl with a 9-3 record.
| Feature | Arizona State Sun Devils | Arizona Wildcats |
|---|---|---|
| Upcoming Bowl Game | 92nd Annual Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl vs. Duke Blue Devils | 46th Annual Holiday Bowl vs. SMU Mustangs |
| Game Date | December 31, 2025 | January 2, 2026 |
| Location | Sun Bowl Stadium, El Paso, Texas | Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego, California |
| Record Entering Bowl Game | 8-4 | 9-3 |
| Most Recent Rivalry Game Result | Lost 23-7 to Arizona Wildcats on November 28, 2025 | Won 23-7 against Arizona State Sun Devils on November 28, 2025 |
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