Big 12 · Tempe, Arizona
Arizona State Football History
Championships, records and rivalries
Program history
ASU history
Desert football, and the oldest rivalry trophy in the sport.
ASU history
The Territorial Cup
Arizona State and Arizona play for the Territorial Cup, the oldest rivalry trophy in college football. The name refers to the Arizona Territory — it predates statehood — and the series began in 1899.
A great deal of college football's structure has been rearranged by realignment in recent years, and this fixture has survived every version of it.
ASU history
Playing in the heat
September football in Tempe is a genuine competitive factor. Early-season kickoffs are frequently moved to the evening because daytime temperatures make midday play impractical, and visiting teams from cooler climates rarely adjust quickly.
Arizona State joined the Big 12 following the Pac-12's dissolution, under Kenny Dillingham, who grew up in the area.
FAQ
ASU history questions
What is the Territorial Cup?
The trophy for the Arizona State against Arizona rivalry, and the oldest rivalry trophy in college football. Its name comes from the Arizona Territory, predating statehood.
Why do Arizona State games kick off at night?
Daytime temperatures in Tempe early in the season make midday football impractical, so kickoffs are frequently scheduled for the evening.
What conference is Arizona State in?
The Big 12, which it joined following the dissolution of the Pac-12.
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