Utah vs Arizona State: The Arizona State Sun Devils face a tough challenge in Week 7 of the 2024 college football season as they prepare to take on the No. 18 Utah Utes in what promises to be a thrilling Pac-12 clash. With both teams fighting for position in the conference standings, this matchup will have major implications for the remainder of their seasons. Here’s everything you need to know about the odds, line, spread, and predictions from a proven model heading into the game.
Utah vs Arizona State: Odds, Line, Spread & Predictions for Week 7 – College Football 2024
Utah vs Arizona State: Game Overview
Date: October 14, 2024
Location: Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, Utah
Time: 8:00 PM ET
Broadcast: ESPN
Arizona State (2-4) has had a challenging season so far, underlined by key injuries and inconsistent performances on both sides of the ball. The Sun Devils are coming off a narrow 24-21 victory against Colorado, but that hasn’t been enough to put them back on track in the Pac-12.
On the other hand, the Utah Utes (5-1) are enjoying another solid season. Their only loss came against Oregon in a close contest, but they bounced back convincingly with a 31-17 win over California last week. Utah has one of the toughest defences in the conference, and they’ll be looking to capitalise on Arizona State’s struggles.
Utah vs Arizona State: Odds and Line
According to oddsmakers, the Utah Utes are the heavy favourites heading into this Week 7 matchup. Here are the latest odds and line:
- Spread: Utah -13.5
- Moneyline: Utah -500, Arizona State +375
- Over/Under: 49.5 points
Utah vs Arizona State: Game Insights
Utah has consistently covered the spread in five of their last six games, showcasing their ability to perform well against the odds. Meanwhile, Arizona State has struggled to cover, especially against ranked opponents. The Utes’ home-field advantage, combined with their dominant defence, has led most betting models to favour them in this game.
For those considering the over/under, the total of 49.5 points suggests that oddsmakers expect a moderate-scoring affair. Utah’s defence is known for shutting down opposing offences, while Arizona State has had trouble putting points on the board in recent games.
Utah vs Arizona State: Team Breakdown
The Sun Devils have had a turbulent season, mainly due to injuries to key players, including their starting quarterback. Their offence has been inconsistent, averaging just 18.3 points per game, which ranks them near the bottom in the Pac-12. Freshman quarterback Jaden Rashada has shown flashes of potential but has also struggled with turnovers. The running game, led by Cameron Skattebo, will need to step up if Arizona State hopes to keep pace with Utah.
Defensively, Arizona State has had issues with stopping the run, which could prove problematic against Utah’s ground-and-pound offence. The Sun Devils have allowed an average of 153.8 rushing yards per game, ranking them in the lower half of the conference. They’ll need a standout performance from their defensive line to contain Utah’s rushing attack.
Team Breakdown: Utah Utes
Utah’s success this season has been built on a stifling defence that allows just 17.8 points per game, one of the best marks in the Pac-12. Their defensive line, anchored by standout junior Jonah Elliss, has been particularly impressive, creating pressure and stuffing the run. Utah has excelled at forcing turnovers and making life difficult for opposing quarterbacks, which bodes well against a shaky Arizona State offensive line.
Offensively, Utah has been effective but not overly explosive. The Utes rely heavily on their run game, led by running back Ja’Quinden Jackson, who has already rushed for 634 yards this season. Quarterback Nate Johnson has been efficient, avoiding turnovers and managing the game well, though he’s not known for putting up big numbers. Expect Utah to control the clock and wear down Arizona State’s defence with a steady dose of running plays.
Utah vs Arizona State: Key Players to Watch
- Jaden Rashada (Arizona State, QB): The freshman quarterback will be crucial if the Sun Devils hope to pull off an upset. Rashada’s ability to make plays under pressure will be tested against one of the best defensive units in the Pac-12.
- Cameron Skattebo (Arizona State, RB): Arizona State’s most consistent offensive weapon. He’ll need to have a big game to keep the Sun Devils competitive.
- Jonah Elliss (Utah, DE): Elliss has been a force on the defensive line, leading the team with 7.5 sacks this season. He’ll be a key factor in disrupting Arizona State’s offensive game plan.
- Ja’Quinden Jackson (Utah, RB): Utah’s offensive workhorse. Jackson has been the backbone of the Utes’ ground game, and he’ll look to exploit Arizona State’s vulnerable run defence.
Utah vs Arizona State: Predictions
While Arizona State has shown resilience in certain games, it’s hard to see them pulling off a victory against a well-rounded Utah team. The Utes’ defence is simply too strong, and their ability to control the game on the ground will likely lead to a comfortable win.
Utah vs Arizona State: Prediction: Utah 31, Arizona State 17
The spread of -13.5 in favour of Utah seems justified given the disparity between the two teams. Utah’s strong defensive front should be able to limit Arizona State’s offensive production, while their ground game should wear down the Sun Devils over the course of the game.
Utah vs Arizona State: Final Thoughts
This matchup between Arizona State and Utah has significant implications for both teams, particularly for Utah as they aim to keep their Pac-12 title hopes alive. With Arizona State looking to turn their season around, expect a hard-fought battle. However, Utah’s superior defence and balanced offence make them the clear favourites to come out on top in Week 7.
This game should provide plenty of excitement for fans, but all signs point to Utah solidifying their position as one of the Pac-12’s top contenders.
