The BYU-Arizona State game is kicking off at 1:30 p.m. on Fox this Saturday, literally saving Halloween for fans who want both football and trick-or-treating, a combo that feels as perfect as a Milk Dud. For a while, it looked like we were headed for a tough choice, with the “vampire Cougs” hosting the Sun Devils in what felt like a tailor-made 8:15 p.m. haunting. But thanks to BYU’s scorching hot start and national ranking, this game is a hot ticket item for TV.
BYU’s Rise Made This Daylight Showdown Happen
BYU is absolutely rolling right now, sitting at 6-1 overall and 3-1 in conference play, and they’ve climbed all the way to No. 8 in the national rankings. This isn’t a team hiding in the shadows anymore. Their last-minute, heart-stopping 28-24 victory against No. 2 Notre Dame was watched by a massive 12.3 million viewers. Talk about making a statement! They just kicked off in the sunshine last week at UCF, pulling in a Fox audience that peaked at 10 million. When you’re putting up numbers like that, the networks are going to put you front and center, even if it means moving you to a Halloween afternoon slot. That’s a huge win for everyone who wants to see some football and still get the kids out for candy later.
Arizona State’s Nightmare Scenario and the Game’s Spooky Progression
While BYU fans are celebrating this daylight doubleheader, nobody’s happier about the early kickoff than Arizona State. The Sun Devils, currently 4-3 overall and 2-2 in conference, are rolling into LaVell Edwards Stadium starting true freshmen at both quarterback and running back. This isn’t just any road game, either. BYU’s home field has been absolutely paranormal for opponents, especially when the sun goes down. The Cougars have won 16 straight home games and 42 of their last 46, but at least the Sun Devils avoid that dark, chilling environment.
Thinking about this game like a night of trick-or-treating, here’s how things might play out:
* **First Quarter:** BYU starts with nothing but high hopes, just like a trick-or-treater hitting the first few doors. They’re working possession by possession, getting a feel for the game. There might be a few hiccups, a false start or a dropped pass, but no matter. The Cougars press on, just like kids pushing past the houses handing out apples. The score hits BYU 7-0.
* **Second Quarter:** Things start to get more intense. The weight of the game, much like a candy bag getting heavier, builds up. For Aaron Roderick and the BYU offense, do they take big risks for a huge payoff, or stick to the game plan? It’s like deciding whether to hit an apartment complex for maximum candy or stay on the main streets. The score moves to BYU 21-3.
* **Third Quarter:** The rhythm is set. BYU is running, throwing, and the defense has clearly dialed in on Arizona State’s young quarterback. This is where the Cougars start performing like a genuine playoff team. For a trick-or-treater, it’s like scoring a Twix, a Snickers, and a KitKat at three doors in a row. BYU extends their lead to 35-10.
* **Fourth Quarter:** We know things can get absolutely wild late in games, and BYU has been in back-to-back heart-stoppers. But if all goes according to plan, the biggest decision for head coach Kalani Sitake will be… well, we’ll have to wait and see.
Next week, the Cougars hit the road for another big one, playing at Utah at 10 a.m. That game will be on either ABC or ESPN. But for now, get ready for some Halloween daylight football, because BYU is giving us a show before the candy rush!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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