X-factors to watch in Texas’ game against Arizona State [VIDEO]

On Wednesday, the Texas Longhorns will face off against Arizona State in the Peach Bowl. In the YouTube video above, our Devon Messinger and Dylan DeRaud name their X-factors to watch in Texas’ second round CFP matchup.

Messinger’s X-Factors:

It might be obvious but that’s okay. My X-factor to watch is Arizona State’s Cam Skattebo. This year, in Arizona State’s two losses, Skattebo has rushed for 75 yards or less. With injury striking the receiver position, the Sun Devils will certainly be leaning on their 2,000 all-purpose yard running back. If Pete Kwiatkowski’s defense can continue to strangle opposing team’s running backs, the Longhorns will be in a good shape to win on Wednesday.

DeRaud’s X-Factors:

With Jordyn Tyson out, Arizona State’s passing attack loses its most dynamic playmaker, putting even more pressure on Cameron Skattebo, who leads the team in receiving yards after Tyson. For the offense to stay balanced and keep Texas off guard, someone else—whether it’s wide receiver Xavier Guillory, tight end Chamon Metayer, or another player—will need to step up and provide an extra threat in the passing game. If one of them can deliver key plays, it will force Texas to spread its focus beyond Skattebo, opening up opportunities for the offense to stay efficient and unpredictable.