Arizona State’s equipment managers inadvertently became unlikely stars – and perhaps future Hall of Famers – in the Peach Bowl CFP quarterfinal. Their unintentional interference with Texas kicker Bert Auburn’s pre-kick routine during a crucial late-game field goal attempt became a viral moment. While seemingly accidental, cameras captured the ASU equipment managers walking directly in front of Auburn as he prepared for the potentially game-winning 38-yard kick, which he subsequently missed. This incident unfolded with only two seconds remaining in regulation, setting the stage for a dramatic double-overtime showdown.
Texas ultimately avoided a major upset, prevailing 39-31 over the No. 10 Sun Devils, who were a two-touchdown underdog. Arizona State mounted a remarkable comeback, erasing a 16-point deficit in the fourth quarter. Cam Skattebo’s 3-yard touchdown run in the first overtime period even gave the Sun Devils their first lead of the game. However, Texas answered with a clutch fourth-and-13 conversion, a 28-yard touchdown pass from Quinn Ewers to Matthew Golden. Ewers then added another touchdown pass to Gunnar Helms in the next play, followed by a two-point conversion, extending Texas’ lead.
The thrilling back-and-forth contest finally concluded in the second overtime period when Andrew Makuba intercepted Sam Leavitt’s pass at the 3-yard line, securing the victory for No. 4 Texas (13-2). Despite the heartbreaking loss, Arizona State (11-3) showcased impressive resilience and nearly pulled off a stunning upset, leaving a lasting impression on viewers – and perhaps securing a place in football lore for their equipment managers.