In a highly anticipated matchup, No. 4 Texas, emerging from a heart-wrenching loss in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) title game, is set to face No. 10 Arizona State in the College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinals at the Peach Bowl in Atlanta on January 1. Texas, boasting a 12-2 record and a No. 5 seed in the CFP, was last in Atlanta under different circumstances, having lost an overtime thriller to Georgia just weeks prior. Now they return in search of redemption against the Sun Devils, who hold an impressive 11-2 record as the No. 4 seed.

The stakes are high as the winner of this contest will advance to the Cotton Bowl on January 10, where they will face either Oregon or Ohio State in the semifinals. Texas holds a decisive edge in the series, leading 1-0 against Arizona State after their earlier encounter in the 2007 Holiday Bowl.

The matchup features intriguing player dynamics. Arizona State's standout running back Cam Skattebo, who racked up over 2,000 yards from scrimmage this season, will face a formidable challenge against Texas' top-ranked rushing defense. Texas ranks 11th nationally, allowing just 104.5 rushing yards per game. Skattebo's performance will be pivotal as he looks to make his mark in what he describes as an exciting opportunity against an elite defense. “I feel like I’m the best. I’m going to present to them something new that they haven’t seen before,” Skattebo said confidently in anticipation of the game (AP News).

On the other side, Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers seeks to extend his impressive season, having thrown for 2,867 yards and 26 touchdowns. He will be tested by Arizona State's Sam Leavitt, who has also shown substantial prowess with 2,663 passing yards and 24 touchdowns. “I’m just excited for the opportunity,” Leavitt expressed. “People keep counting me out since Day 1, and I’m going to go prove why I’m the better quarterback” (AP News).

Coaches Steve Sarkisian (Texas) and Kenny Dillingham (Arizona State) acknowledge the significance of turnovers in this high-stakes playoff game. Texas has forced an impressive 29 turnovers this season, while Arizona State has maintained a low turnover rate, having given the ball away just eight times. Dillingham emphasized the need for Leavitt to have a clean pocket against Texas' relentless defensive front, highlighting how crucial it will be to control the game tempo through smart ball management.

Texas will be looking to neutralize a strong Arizona State offense while capitalizing on any mistakes. The Sun Devils, who have found themselves in the spotlight after being predicted to finish at the bottom of the Big 12, aim to prove their success this season isn’t merely a flash in the pan. “We’re going to face one of the best teams in the country, if not the best,” Dillingham remarked, setting the tone for this competitive clash (AP News).

Fans can look forward to a thrilling encounter marked by strategic plays and significant individual performances. The Peach Bowl promises to captivate both college football enthusiasts and casual fans alike as Texas aims to redeem its recent setback and Arizona State strives to cement its status as a formidable force in the changing landscape of college football.

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