Arizona State faces Duke in Sun Bowl rematch seeking ninth win on New Year’s Eve, Dillingham’s team has just one major problem

Arizona State looks to secure a crucial ninth win and repeat history on New Year’s Eve as the Sun Devils face Duke in the 2025 Sun Bowl. The rematch of their thrilling 2014 meeting promises high stakes, unexpected storylines, and a chance for both teams to end the season on a winning note in El Paso.

Rematch 11 Years in the Making

More than a decade has passed since Arizona State and Duke last faced off in the same stadium. Back in December 2014, the two programs squared off in what became an instant classic. That contest saw dramatic momentum shifts and key plays down the stretch, ultimately favoring the Sun Devils in a 36-31 thriller.

Now, both teams return to El Paso searching for redemption or revenge. Arizona State seeks to maintain its championship-caliber mentality under head coach Kenny Dillingham, while Duke’s improbable run to the ACC title gives the Blue Devils confidence heading into this bowl game.

Duke’s Storybook ACC Championship Season

Duke‘s path to the 2025 ACC Championship ranks among the most remarkable in college football. The Blue Devils finished the regular season at 7-5, yet head coach Manny Diaz guided them through the championship game against Virginia, earning a dramatic 27-20 overtime victory. This breakthrough represents the program’s first outright ACC title since 1962 and only the second championship in school history.

Despite their conference title, Duke carries 8-5 overall record and enters as 3.5-point favorites against Arizona State. The team’s five losses during the regular season prevented them from securing a spot in the College Football Playoff, making the Sun Bowl their platform to cement a successful season.

Arizona State’s Ninth Win Quest

Category	Arizona State	Duke
Record	8-4	8-5
Conference	Big 12 (6-3)	ACC Champion
Head Coach	Kenny Dillingham (3rd year)	Manny Diaz (2nd year)
Key Development	Dillingham signed 5-year extension	Won ACC title after 7-5 start

Arizona State finished the regular season at 8-4 and sits in sixth place in the Big 12 Conference standings. Head coach Kenny Dillingham has transformed the program’s culture in his three seasons, and the recent signing of a new five-year contract signals the university’s commitment to his vision.

However, the Sun Devils face significant roster challenges heading into the Sun Bowl. Approximately 35 players have elected not to suit up, forcing Dillingham‘s team to dig deep into its depth chart. Despite these obstacles, the opportunity to secure a ninth win carries special meaning for a program building toward sustained success.

Depth and Determination Define Both Teams

Arizona State will lean heavily on its reserves as key contributors sit out. Despite the roster constraints, seniors like linebacker Jordan Crook and defensive lineman Justin Wodtly aim to make their final college football performances memorable. Their leadership could prove crucial in motivating younger players stepping into expanded roles.

Duke enters the game well-rested after capturing the ACC championship and celebrating a historic achievement for the program. The Blue Devils will attempt to ride the momentum of their recent success against an Arizona State team that must overcome significant depth disadvantages. The emotional and psychological edge could sway this matchup in Duke’s favor.

“It’s just a special, special time,” coach Dillingham said of his team’s opportunity to play one final game together.

— Kenny Dillingham, Arizona State Head Coach

Can the Sun Devils Find a Way Against Better-Rested Opponents?

Both teams bring different narratives into this Sun Bowl showdown. Arizona State’s challenge appears daunting: secure a ninth win while operating with severely limited personnel against an energized Duke team celebrating their championship coronation. Will the Sun Devils resilience and growth under Dillingham overcome the odds?

Conversely, Duke’s opportunity to validate their ACC championship run with a bowl win looms large. If the Blue Devils emerge victorious, they conclude the season with a nine-win campaign and a legitimate claim as one of college football’s most improbable success stories. The stakes feel significant for both programs as the clock counts down to New Year’s Eve kickoff in El Paso.

Sources

• ESPN – Arizona State vs. Duke Sun Bowl live coverage and pregame analysis
• CBS Sports – Predictions, odds, and matchup breakdowns for the contest
• Arizona Sports – ACC championship Duke and Arizona State bowl positioning