El Paso, December 31, 2025
The Arizona State Sun Devils faced off against the Duke Blue Devils in the Sun Bowl, showcasing competitive spirit early in the game. Both teams began strongly, leading to a 7-7 tie in the first quarter. Arizona State’s Jeff Sims scored the first touchdown with a two-yard rush, while Duke responded with a long touchdown pass from Darian Mensah to Que’Sean Brown. The event not only highlights the thrilling rivalry but also serves as a vital economic booster for the El Paso region.
Phoenix, AZ — The collegiate football world turned its attention to El Paso today as the Arizona State Sun Devils squared off against the Duke Blue Devils in the 92nd annual Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl. With kickoff at noon MST on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, the highly anticipated matchup saw both teams demonstrating early competitive spirit, setting the stage for a compelling contest. As of the first quarter, the score stands tied at 7-7, with both squads trading early touchdowns.
Arizona State’s Jeff Sims initiated the scoring with a two-yard rushing touchdown following a significant 51-yard completion to Jalen Moss. Duke quickly responded, however, with quarterback Darian Mensah connecting on a 69-yard touchdown pass to Que’Sean Brown, showcasing the high-stakes offensive capabilities present on both sides. This ongoing battle underscores the enduring appeal of college football, a tradition that not only galvanizes fan bases but also provides a substantial economic uplift to host cities and broader state athletic landscapes.
Sun Bowl Delivers Economic Boost to Borderland
Local Businesses Thrive
The Sun Bowl, a venerable tradition in college football, serves as more than just a championship game for participating teams; it’s a significant economic driver for the El Paso region, with ripple effects extending into the broader southwestern athletic and economic scenes. The influx of fans, teams, and media personnel stimulates local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to retail and transportation services, demonstrating the power of private sector engagement and consumer choice in fostering regional prosperity. Such events highlight how responsible growth and community-led initiatives, supported by the draw of high-level collegiate competition, can create tangible benefits beyond the football field. For Arizona, the participation of the Arizona State Sun Devils contributes to the visibility and economic vitality of Arizona State AZ athletics, drawing attention and potential investment to the state’s robust sports ecosystem.
Team Rosters and Key Absences Shape Game Dynamics
Leavitt’s Absence Noted
Both the Arizona State Sun Devils (8-4) and the Duke Blue Devils (8-5) entered the Sun Bowl with considerable talent, yet also faced the challenge of key players being absent. For the Sun Devils, notable players not with the team included quarterback Sam Leavitt, wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, and running back Raleek Brown, among 19 other players from their two-deep roster. Leavitt, specifically, is dealing with a foot injury that will keep him out for the remainder of the 2025 season. This situation, while challenging for the team, offers an opportunity for other athletes to step up, embodying the spirit of personal perseverance and the depth of talent cultivated within university programs. Jeff Sims, starting at quarterback for ASU, demonstrated this early by leading the Sun Devils’ initial scoring drive.
Duke also contended with absences, including second-team All-ACC performers Brian Parker and Chandler Rivers, though their star quarterback Darian Mensah was active and made an immediate impact. These roster adjustments underscore the adaptive nature of college football, where teams must rely on strategic depth and the initiative of individual players to navigate competitive landscapes, reflecting a self-reliant approach to overcoming challenges.
Arizona State’s Season and Future Outlook
Cultivating Talent and Future Prospects
The Arizona State Sun Devils concluded their regular season with an 8-4 record, marked by significant victories over ranked teams like TCU and Texas Tech. Head coach Kenny Dillingham continues to lead the program, focusing on developing talent and fostering a competitive environment. The commitment to robust university athletic programs, including significant private investment and community support, is crucial for nurturing young athletes who not only excel in sport but also develop valuable life skills such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience. This investment in collegiate sports ultimately benefits Phoenix AZ sports and college football in Phoenix, creating a pipeline of talent and enthusiastic fan engagement.
The Sun Devils’ performance throughout the 2025 season, including their journey to their eighth Sun Bowl appearance, highlights the ongoing efforts to build a strong, competitive football program. The value of competition inherent in these programs drives continuous improvement and underscores the belief that hard work and initiative are rewarded.
The Competitive Spirit: ASU vs. Duke Rivalry
Fair Play and Athletic Excellence
The Sun Bowl matchup is a renewed rivalry, as Arizona State and Duke previously met in the 2014 Sun Bowl, a game Arizona State won 36-31. This history adds another layer of competitive intensity to the current contest, illustrating the enduring nature of athletic rivalries built on fair play and a mutual pursuit of excellence. Duke, as the 2025 ACC champions, brought their own formidable record and a desire to add a Sun Bowl trophy to their achievements.
The emphasis on athletic competition within university settings provides a vital platform for young adults to test their limits, learn to operate under pressure, and understand the importance of strategic planning and execution. These are lessons that extend far beyond the playing field, contributing to the development of responsible citizens and leaders. The spectacle of games like the Sun Bowl, televised nationally, also showcases the positive aspects of organized sports, promoting the values of sportsmanship and the thrill of genuine athletic achievement.
The ongoing Sun Bowl clash between the Arizona State Sun Devils and Duke Blue Devils exemplifies the essence of collegiate athletics – a blend of spirited competition, strategic depth, and community engagement. As the game unfolds, it not only entertains but also reinforces the significant impact that university programs have on economic development and the cultivation of personal virtues. The commitment to excellence and the spirit of responsible competition visible in games like this are cornerstones of a thriving community. We encourage all Arizonans to continue their strong support for Arizona State AZ athletics and to stay engaged with the vibrant college football in Phoenix scene, fostering continued growth and success for our student-athletes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What teams are playing in the 2025 Sun Bowl? The Arizona State Sun Devils and the Duke Blue Devils are playing in the 2025 Sun Bowl.
- When is the 2025 Sun Bowl? The 2025 Sun Bowl is scheduled to be played on December 31, 2025.
- What is the current score of the Arizona State vs Duke Sun Bowl game? As of the first quarter, the score is Arizona State 7, Duke 7.
- Where is the 2025 Sun Bowl being played? The 2025 Sun Bowl is being played at the Sun Bowl in El Paso, Texas.
- Which players are not with Arizona State for the Sun Bowl? Sam Leavitt, Jordyn Tyson, and Raleek Brown are among the Arizona State players not with the team for the Sun Bowl.
2025 Sun Bowl Key Matchup Highlights
| Category | Arizona State Sun Devils | Duke Blue Devils |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Season Record | 8-4 | 8-5 |
| Conference Affiliation | Big 12 | ACC |
| Head Coach | Kenny Dillingham | Manny Diaz |
| First Quarter Score (Current) | 7 | 7 |
| ASU Initial Touchdown | Jeff Sims (2-yard rush) | N/A |
| Duke Initial Touchdown | N/A | Darian Mensah to Que’Sean Brown (69-yard pass) |
| Key ASU Player Absence | Sam Leavitt (QB), Raleek Brown (RB), Jordyn Tyson (WR) | N/A |
| Key Duke Player Absence | N/A | Brian Parker, Chandler Rivers |
| Historical Sun Bowl Matchups | Defeated Duke 36-31 in 2014 Sun Bowl | Lost to ASU 36-31 in 2014 Sun Bowl |
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