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Arizona vs Arizona State: 2024 Territorial Cup Sets the Stage for a High-Stakes Showdown

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, November 27th 2025 at 18:32 GMT by Sporting News

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The 2024 Territorial Cup: Arizona vs. Arizona State – A Ranked Rivalry Clash

The 2024 “Territorial Cup” showdown between the Arizona Wildcats and the Arizona State Sun Devils isn’t just another Friday night in Phoenix. With the Sun Devils entering the contest ranked, and the Wildcats fighting to prove they can still compete at the highest level, the game has taken on a high‑stakes feel for both programs. The Sporting News preview of the matchup pulls together the history of the rivalry, recent season performances, key player match‑ups, and what’s at stake for each team.

A Brief History of the Territorial Cup

The Arizona–Arizona State rivalry is one of the most historic and heated in college football. First played in 1899, the teams have faced each other 107 times, with ASU currently holding a 55–44–8 advantage. The trophy—called the Territorial Cup—has been awarded to the winner of the annual game since 1976, and it’s been a symbol of bragging rights for decades. The rivalry has featured many memorable moments, from dramatic 38‑31 upsets to the Sun Devils’ 2023 comeback that gave them a 32‑31 win on the Wildcats’ home turf.

For both fan bases, the Territorial Cup is the culmination of the season: a chance to win the bragging rights, secure a better bowl berth, and, for the first time in a long time, finish with a winning record. In 2023, the Sun Devils finished 9–3 and earned a spot in the Pac‑12 Championship Game, while the Wildcats closed the season 5–7, falling short of bowl eligibility. With the game now scheduled to take place at Arizona Stadium in Tucson on Friday, October 27, the stakes have never been higher.

Season Recap: Arizona vs. Arizona State

Arizona State – 9‑3, Pac‑12 South Champion

ASU has been a juggernaut on the offensive side of the ball. Running back Jordan Davis has racked up 1,500 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, while the passing game, led by quarterback Gabe Davis, produced 4,000 passing yards and 36 touchdowns. On defense, the Sun Devils have been solid, holding opponents to an average of 20.5 points per game. This season’s success has earned ASU a #15 ranking in the AP poll, positioning them as one of the top teams in the conference and giving the Territorial Cup a national spotlight.

Arizona – 5‑7, a Season of Transition

Arizona’s season has been a story of highs and lows. After starting 4–1, a string of injuries and defensive breakdowns saw the Wildcats fall behind. Despite the setbacks, the team’s offense—led by a newly promoted offensive coordinator—remains a threat, especially on the passing side with a new quarterback, Parker Riegel, stepping into the spotlight. The Wildcats have shown resilience, pulling off key victories in the Pac‑12 against top‑10 teams, but a late‑season collapse left them two games shy of bowl eligibility.

Key Match‑Ups

Jordan Davis (ASU RB) vs. Arizona’s Defensive Line

Jordan Davis is the centerpiece of the Sun Devils’ offense, averaging 130 yards per game. The Wildcats will look to their line, anchored by the veteran defensive tackle, to stop him. A dominant performance from Arizona’s defensive front could keep Davis’s rushing yards in check and force the Sun Devils into a more balanced offense.

Parker Riegel (Arizona QB) vs. ASU’s Secondary

Arizona’s new quarterback, Parker Riegel, has already shown an ability to make big plays under pressure. Facing ASU’s secondary, led by senior cornerback, the question will be whether Riegel can maintain his composure and avoid turnovers in a game where the Sun Devils have proven to be opportunistic defenders.

Coaching Strategies

Arizona’s coaching staff is looking to capitalize on their strengths on the passing game, while the Sun Devils plan to control the clock with a balanced offense. ASU’s defensive coordinator has emphasized an aggressive pass rush that could put a lot of pressure on Riegel. Both teams will be playing a game of strategy as much as physicality, with coaches looking to out‑wits each other in the huddle.

What’s at Stake?

For Arizona State, a win would solidify their national ranking and strengthen their case for a prestigious bowl appearance, while also giving them a chance to finish the season on a high note and secure momentum going into the next season. For Arizona, victory would mean not only a historic win over their crosstown rivals but also a chance to finish the season with a winning record and possibly earn a bowl berth—something that would energize the fan base and the program’s future recruiting.

Looking Ahead

The Territorial Cup remains one of the most eagerly awaited games on the college football calendar. With ASU ranked and Arizona determined to prove they still belong among the Pac‑12 elite, the game promises a thrilling showcase of talent, strategy, and rivalry. Whether the Sun Devils will maintain their winning trajectory or the Wildcats will rise from adversity remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: this matchup is set to be a high‑intensity clash that will resonate for years to come.

Keep an eye on the pre‑game coverage on Sporting News and the official sites for both Arizona and Arizona State as the game approaches. The outcome will not only decide the winner of the Territorial Cup but will also set the tone for the remainder of both teams’ seasons.