By Dane Miller, SuperWest Sports
December 5, 2024
The Big 12 college football season comes down to the Conference Championship Game between Arizona State and Iowa State on Saturday.
While the matchup wasn’t expected in the preseason—the Sun Devils were picked by many to finish last—it should be competitive between the two 10-2 teams.
I preview the contest here, breaking down what’s at stake and what both teams must do to win.
Last week, I went 4-4 straight up, hitting 50% of my predictions. That gives me a 69-36 conference record, good for a 66% success rate on the season.
My pick for this game, both against the spread and straight up appears below.
No. 16 Iowa State v. No. 15 Arizona State
Saturday, December 7
9:00 am PT, ABC
Line: Arizona State -2.5
What’s at Stake: A College Football Playoff berth is on the line in Arlington, Texas.
The Big 12 has been disrespected by the Committee all season, and its members still seem more interested in promoting the “big brands” than ranking teams according to their merit.
The winner of this game isn’t likely to receive a First Round bye unless UNLV beats Boise State on Friday.
If the No. 10 Broncos beat UNLV they would be the higher-ranked conference champion and get the bye.
Why Iowa State Wins: The Cyclones limit the number of broken tackles they allow on defense, the secondary makes plays when Sam Leavitt throws outside of the pocket, and the offense wins the time of possession battle.
Why Arizona State Wins: The combination of Cam Skattebo and Leavitt creates a potent offense that moves the ball and puts up points.
Leavitt uses his mobility to extend plays, create hesitancy in the defense, and is accurate when throwing while Skattebo reaches or exceeds his average of 127.1 yards rushing.
On defense, the corners prevent the ISU wide receivers from creating explosive plays through the air.
—My Picks—
Against Spread: Arizona State
Straight Up: Arizona State
-
Final 2024-25 Best in West Men’s Basketball Power Rankings
> Our Dane Miller ranks the Top 10 teams in the region with summary updates for each - April 4, 2025 -
Given No Chance, Arizona Spoiling to Shock World, Duke
> Comparisons to the Wildcats team that lost to the Blue Devils in November no longer hold - March 27, 2025 -
Forcing Turnovers BYU’s Key to Keeping Pace with Tide
> The Cougars allow 71.4 points per game but Bama ranks among nation's worst in errant plays - March 26, 2025