Reactions from athletes to Texas’ victory over Arizona State
The first instant classic of the format was created in the second game of the first 12-team College Football Playoff quarterfinals.

The Texas Longhorns led the Arizona State Sun Devils 17-3 at the half, but the Arizona State team’s ferocious fourth-quarter comeback made the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl College Football Playoff Quarterfinal crucial.
Texas kicker Bert Auburn had two late opportunities to put the Longhorns ahead with the score knotted at 24. With 1:39 left in regulation, the first shot went wide. As time ran out, the second struck the left upright.
Nor did the subsequent extra period let us down. Arizona State got off to an offensive start, setting up a touchdown on its first possession by converting on fourth-and-1 and third-and-14. Texas scored a 28-yard touchdown of their own on its first play, facing fourth-and-13.
In the second overtime, the roles were switched, and the Longhorns prevailed. Andrew Mukuba, a defensive back for Texas, scored on the first play of the period and then made a game-ending interception to seal the 39-31 victory.
There was a lot of discussion about the exciting conclusion in Atlanta on sports social media. The greatest responses to Texas’ victory over Arizona State can be found here.
The victory by the University of Texas over Arizona State in their most recent matchup has garnered a significant response from athletes, both on the Texas team and from competitors across various sports. This remarkable win, which showcased Texas’ prowess on the field, resonated deeply with the athletes involved and others who were watching or had some form of connection to the game.
For the players on the Texas team, the win was a moment of collective pride. Many expressed their elation and relief after what had been a hard-fought battle. The athletes’ reactions were varied, ranging from euphoria to a sense of accomplishment. A key factor that emerged in these responses was the recognition of the team’s hard work and preparation coming to fruition. Throughout the game, Texas displayed resilience and determination, which were not only praised by their own teammates but also highlighted by athletes from other schools.
Some Texas players took to social media to share their excitement. Through platforms such as Twitter and Instagram, they posted celebratory messages, pictures, and videos reflecting the intensity of the game. These posts were filled with expressions of gratitude towards their coaches, teammates, and supporters who had been part of their journey. Several athletes took a moment to acknowledge their collective efforts, often citing how the victory felt like a team accomplishment rather than an individual one. They celebrated the cohesion and camaraderie that allowed them to execute their strategies and secure the win against a formidable opponent.
Athletes from Arizona State, on the other hand, exhibited a mixture of disappointment and motivation. While the defeat was undoubtedly tough to swallow, many Sun Devils used the loss as fuel to improve and reflect on their performance. Some Arizona State players voiced their commitment to bouncing back stronger, emphasizing that setbacks were part of the process of growth and development. These athletes openly acknowledged Texas’ superior performance on that day but also stated that they would learn from the defeat to refine their own skills and strategies for future contests.
As is common in competitive sports, many professional athletes and commentators from various backgrounds weighed in on the significance of Texas’ victory. Their reactions added another layer of insight into the implications of the win. Some former college athletes, now in the professional leagues, noted the importance of maintaining focus during high-stakes games and how Texas’ ability to stay composed throughout the match played a crucial role in their success. Others pointed to the tactical decisions made by Texas’ coaching staff as a significant factor in securing the victory, highlighting how well-prepared the team appeared for the specific challenges posed by Arizona State.
There were also widespread reactions from athletes not directly involved in the game. College athletes from other universities, some of whom had faced Texas in previous seasons or had observed Arizona State’s performances in prior matches, expressed their admiration for the win. These athletes recognized the skill and talent that Texas demonstrated on the field and voiced their respect for the team’s ability to adapt under pressure. For them, Texas’ victory was not just a win over one opponent; it was an affirmation of their own competitiveness, as they too aspire to reach such high levels of excellence.
Texas’ triumph was particularly notable for its significance within the broader context of college athletics. Many athletes from different sports took the opportunity to praise the teamwork, perseverance, and strategic thinking displayed by the players. Whether they were basketball players, swimmers, or football stars, the message was clear: the importance of collaboration, mental fortitude, and the relentless pursuit of victory resonated across various athletic disciplines. These athletes expressed that such victories serve as a reminder that success is not only determined by individual talent but by the collective effort and determination of a team.
In the broader landscape of college sports, reactions also came from prominent coaches who had witnessed the game or had knowledge of the teams involved. Some coaches from rival schools noted how the match was a perfect example of how any small mistake in high-level competition could tip the balance in favor of the opposition. They admired the discipline and preparation exhibited by the Texas athletes, which allowed them to capitalize on the few opportunities that presented themselves throughout the contest.
Another noteworthy aspect of the reactions came from sports analysts and commentators. Many highlighted Texas’ aggressive approach and their ability to execute plays under pressure, making the victory even more impressive. Analysts spoke highly of individual performances that had stood out during the game, with some noting how certain players displayed leadership and exceptional skill in crucial moments.
For athletes in sports beyond football, there was also an understanding of the emotional toll and physical demands of such victories. Many of these athletes pointed to the mental endurance required to perform at such a high level and the importance of staying focused throughout the duration of a long and grueling match. They recognized that while Texas’ victory was a physical accomplishment, it was also a testament to the mental strength and resilience of the team as a whole.
The post-game atmosphere among athletes from Texas and Arizona State reflected both satisfaction and the drive to improve. Some Texas players celebrated together, reaffirming their bond and the hard work that had led to this moment. Meanwhile, athletes from Arizona State took time to regroup and refocus, understanding that each defeat presents an opportunity for growth. The emphasis on learning from experience was evident in their discussions and shared reflections.