In a thrilling college football matchup, Mississippi State upset No. 12 Arizona State 24-20 with a last-minute touchdown pass, delivering a dramatic victory that marks a significant achievement for the Bulldogs.
The game reached its peak with only 30 seconds left on the clock, as Mississippi State quarterback Blake Shapen launched a 58-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brenen Thompson, completing a swift five-play, 77-yard drive that took just 1:08. This decisive play came immediately after Arizona State had taken a 20-17 lead with a field goal, capping a nearly nine-minute drive that seemed to secure the win for the Sun Devils.
Mississippi State started strong, controlling the first half with a 17-0 lead before Arizona State’s Jesus Gomez kicked a 51-yard field goal as time expired to make it 17-3 at halftime. The Bulldogs outgained the Sun Devils 209 yards to 95 in the first two quarters, demonstrating dominance on both sides of the ball.
Arizona State responded vigorously in the second half, scoring 20 unanswered points. They opened the third quarter with an eight-play, 75-yard drive culminating in a 6-yard touchdown run by Kanye Udoh. Later, they tied the game at 17-17 with a 2-yard pass from Sam Leavitt to Jordyn Tyson early in the fourth quarter, showcasing a resilient comeback.
The Sun Devils’ ground game was a highlight, with Raleek Brown rushing for 110 yards and Udoh adding 105 yards, but their passing attack struggled. Leavitt completed only 10 of 22 passes for 82 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions, including a critical pick on the final drive that sealed Mississippi State’s win.
For Mississippi State, Shapen was efficient, going 19-of-33 for 279 yards and three touchdowns without interceptions. Thompson was the star receiver with six catches for 133 yards and two scores, while Anthony Evans also contributed with nine receptions for 108 yards and a touchdown. The Bulldogs’ defense improved significantly from last season, recording six tackles for loss, two sacks, and two interceptions.
This victory is monumental for Mississippi State, which is under second-year head coach Jeff Lebby. After a disastrous 2-10 season in 2024, this win over a ranked opponent signals a potential revival. Lebby praised the team’s effort and the electric atmosphere at Davis Wade Stadium, where 50,808 fans witnessed the upset.
Arizona State coach Kenny Dillingham acknowledged the explosive plays by Mississippi State and emphasized the need for his team to learn from this loss. He noted that the Sun Devils aim to peak later in the season, and this early setback could serve as a learning experience as they prepare for Big 12 conference play.
Both teams look ahead to their next games; Arizona State hosts Texas State, while Mississippi State faces Alcorn State. This result could have implications for the rankings and set the tone for the rest of their seasons, with the Bulldogs seeking to build on this momentum and the Sun Devils working to regain their footing.