The 2025 college football season is shaping up to be one of transformation, especially for programs navigating conference realignment. Among the most interesting storylines is the Arizona State Sun Devils’ transition as they continue to find their footing in the Big 12 after departing the Pac-12. While the official schedule has not been released, we can piece together a projected slate based on historical scheduling practices, conference rotations, non-conference commitments, and insider speculation. Here’s an informed prediction of the 2025 Arizona State football schedule—and how it could play out.
Non-Conference Games
Historically, Power Five programs aim to schedule three non-conference games, including at least one against another Power Five opponent and one or two against Group of Five or FCS teams. Arizona State has followed this pattern consistently in the past.
1. Week 1: vs. Northern Arizona (FCS)
The Sun Devils have a longstanding history of opening their seasons against in-state FCS foe Northern Arizona. This is a low-risk matchup and a chance to tune up before conference play. In 2025, it makes sense for ASU to continue this trend, especially as they work in a new quarterback and continue to rebuild under second-year head coach Kenny Dillingham.
2. Week 2: at Texas A&M (SEC)
Arizona State is rumored to return the favor from their 2015 home matchup with Texas A&M. Facing a strong SEC team early will be a true test for the Sun Devils. It will also offer national exposure and a chance to see how well ASU competes against elite talent. Though a win may be a stretch, the game will be crucial for player development and recruiting momentum.
3. Week 3: vs. UNLV (Mountain West)
UNLV is a frequent opponent and offers a competitive, yet manageable, non-conference test. Hosting the Rebels in Tempe would give ASU a solid chance to notch a second win before the demanding Big 12 schedule begins.
Big 12 Conference Play
With Arizona State in the Big 12, their schedule becomes both more unpredictable and more exciting. Assuming the Big 12 sticks with a model similar to 2024’s—where teams play nine conference games with some rotational matchups—the following are likely opponents based on geography, historical matchups, and reported future scheduling intentions.
4. Week 4: at Arizona
It’s likely that the Territorial Cup remains an early-to-mid season fixture. The fierce rivalry game between Arizona State and Arizona, now both Big 12 members, will continue as one of college football’s most underrated rivalries. With Big 12 implications now in play, this game’s intensity will be elevated.
5. Week 5: vs. Baylor
Baylor provides a good geographic matchup and a compelling style clash. The Bears have been up and down in recent seasons, making this a potentially winnable game for the Sun Devils at home. It also gives ASU fans a chance to see another Texas team in Sun Devil Stadium, a new tradition that will become more common in the Big 12 era.
6. Week 6: at UCF
A road game in Orlando would test ASU’s travel stamina and roster depth. UCF is building a strong program under Gus Malzahn, and playing in the Bounce House is no easy feat. This would be one of ASU’s tougher away games of the year.
7. Week 7: vs. Iowa State
Bringing in a Midwestern team like Iowa State provides diversity in ASU’s new conference experience. The Cyclones play a physical brand of football that could present challenges in the Arizona heat. This mid-season contest could be pivotal for bowl eligibility.
8. Week 8: at Kansas State
Kansas State has been one of the Big 12’s more consistent programs. A trip to Manhattan, Kansas, especially in late October, is always tough. Expect a gritty, defense-first game that could come down to the wire.
9. Week 9: vs. Colorado
Deion Sanders and the Buffaloes are one of the most intriguing programs in the conference. This former Pac-12 matchup carries over into the Big 12 with new stakes. Hosting Colorado gives ASU a major home-field advantage, especially if the Sun Devils are still in bowl contention.
10. Week 10: at TCU
Another challenging road test, TCU remains a formidable Big 12 force, despite some post-College Football Playoff regression. Fort Worth is a tough environment, and this game could define ASU’s season depending on how the previous weeks unfold.
11. Week 11: vs. Texas Tech
Finishing the season at home against a solid Texas Tech team gives ASU a chance to end on a high note. The Red Raiders play fast and aggressive, but with Tempe’s crowd behind them, the Sun Devils could find an edge in what might be a must-win scenario for bowl qualification.
Final Thoughts
Arizona State’s 2025 season looks like a gauntlet, but it also offers opportunities for growth. As the Sun Devils adapt to their new Big 12 identity, fans should be excited for a slate that includes traditional rivals, new conference foes, and high-profile non-conference games. With Coach Dillingham’s vision starting to take root and a young core gaining experience, 2025 could be the year ASU starts to turn the corner. A 6–6 or 7–5 finish isn’t out of the question, and that might be just what the program needs to build long-term success in their new home.
