No. 21 Arizona State Vs. Utah, Week 7: Game Preview, Score Prediction
Oct 10, 2025, 5:00 PM | Updated: Oct 11, 2025, 1:52 pm
SALT LAKE CITY — Kyle Whittingham and the Utah Utes head into a defining Week 7 matchup against No. 21 Arizona State, this is a game preview and score prediction for the contest.
Both teams come into this one with a 4–1 record, while staring down a tough stretch on the calendar — and needing to get off on the right foot with a win to start the month.
For Utah, it’s about proving that they’re one of the genuine contenders in the Big 12 this season. For Arizona State, it’s about preserving their place among the top of the conference.
The Stakes in the Big 12 Race
Coming off a tough 48-14 win at West Virginia, Utah enjoyed a bye this past weekend. The Utes are looking to build momentum in a late-night clash that will have major implications for the Big 12 race.
Utah already has one conference loss, while Arizona State has two valuable wins over TCU and Baylor. The win provides significant implications in the Big 12 race, as tie-breakers will likely be pretty valuable.
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When Utah has the ball
Utah’s offensive line also needs to re-establish dominance up front; after rushing for just 101 yards against Texas Tech, gaining control of the line of scrimmage is a must in the first home game since that outing.
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The passing game has to continue to find success like it did against West Virginia. Devon Dampier has been stellar through five games — protecting the football, making plays in the air and on the ground — but the Utes need the passing attack to convert against an aggressive Sun Devil defense.
Not only that, but Arizona State comes in leading the league in sacks with 19, so Utah’s pass protection has to be on point as well.
When Arizona State has the ball
All eyes will be on the quarterback spot now that Sam Leavitt has been listed as doubtful on Arizona State’s most recent availability report.
Kenny Dillingham shared on a local radio show that Leavitt is unlikely to play Saturday night, saying it would be a “mini-miracle” On Friday, it was confirmed by Arizona State officials that he indeed will not play against Utah.
Without Leavitt, that puts sixth-year quarterback, Jeff Sims, at the helm of the Sun Devils offense.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 220 pounds, Sims has played in 33 college games across three programs: Georgia Tech, Nebraska, and Arizona State. Over his six-year career, he has accumulated 4,914 passing yards, 31 touchdowns, and 29 interceptions, along with 1,442 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns.
RELATED: Arizona State QB Listed As Doubtful In Latest Availability Report For Utah Game
Jordyn Tyson has been a dynamic force for ASU through the first six games, catching 483 yards and 7 touchdowns. His route-running and ability to create separation make him one of the most explosive receiving threats in the Big 12.
Raleek Brown, meanwhile, leads the conference in rushing with over 506 yards and 2 touchdowns on the ground, averaging 6.5 yards per carry, and has consistently broken tackles to extend plays.
Utah vs Arizona State: The Winning Recipe
1st down rushing success: Utah has been one of the best offenses in terms of efficiency, thanks in large part to early down success. Arizona State has been stingy on defense thanks in large part to early down success against the run. Utah has averaged 5.4 yards per carry on 1st down but the Sun Devils are limiting opponents to just 1.3 yards per carry on 1st down.
Protect the ball: Ball security is paramount, especially given the conditions the teams will be playing in. Against Texas Tech, it seemed Utah was on the verge of putting together drives in back to back possessions, unfortunately, both were cut short due to fumbles. Protect the ball and avoid the giveaways.
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Defensive discipline: The Sun Devils will have an athletic quarterback leading them against the Utes. That puts an emphasis on defensive discipline, as Sims will still be capable of breaking down defenses with his athleticism. As long as Utah does that, while playing with the aggression and physicality that typically do, that will go a long way in defending the Sun Devils.
Utah vs Arizona State Score Prediction
Expect a hard-fought, physical battle. The Sam Leavitt news is a considerable factor, but the Sun Devils still have a lot of talent throughout the both units.
The Utes need to remain committed to the run game, while also be opportunistic. The Utah defense needs to be disciplined, regardless of who is at the helm. The Rice Eccles crowd should provide a strong home-field advantage and play a role for the Utes.
Score Prediction: Utah 27, Arizona State 20
