Arizona State football overcame a weather delay to defeat Hawaii 30-12 in a Week 6 college football matchup on October 10, 2026.
Why it matters: Arizona State's victory improves its season record to 3-2, providing momentum after a rough start. The game also showcased the challenges posed by unpredictable weather during college football season.
Arizona State led the game with a score of 17-6 at halftime before the weather delay.
The Sun Devils had previously lost 55-19 against Baylor, making this win a much-needed rebound.
Hawaii's loss drops them to 1-5, continuing their struggles this season.
Driving the news: The game was delayed due to thunderstorms, with intermittent rain affecting the first half. Lightning forced the teams off the field, resulting in a 39-minute delay before they resumed play at 9:54 p.m. MST.
NCAA rules mandate a 30-minute wait after the last lightning strike within an eight-mile radius, which contributed to the delay.
Hawaii's previous match saw them lose 20-16 to San Jose State, marking their fourth consecutive defeat.
Arizona State was favored by 20.5 points heading into the game, highlighting the expectations for their performance.
State of play: Arizona State's Cutter Boley led the offense, contributing significantly to the team's scoring after the delay.
Boley completed 25 of 43 passes for 304 yards, with one touchdown and one interception.
Reed Harris played a key role with seven receptions for 125 yards, continuing his strong season.
Hawaii struggled offensively, with Micah Alejado throwing for 340 yards but also tossing two interceptions.
The big picture: The game reflects the broader challenges teams face when weather conditions disrupt play.
Weather-related delays are not uncommon in college football, affecting game flow and player performance.
On the same day, the Utah-Kansas game was moved up to avoid similar weather issues, indicating a trend in scheduling adjustments.
Arizona State's win solidifies their position in the Big 12 standings as they look to improve their record.
What they're saying: Coaches and players addressed the impact of the weather delay on their performance.
“We just had to stay focused and keep our heads in the game,” Boley said, emphasizing the mental toughness required during the delay.
Hawaii coach Timmy Chang noted the challenge of playing without key players, including slotback Pofele Ashlock, who is recovering from ACL surgery.
By the numbers: The statistical breakdown highlights the contrasting fortunes of both teams.
Arizona State improved to 3-2 with the victory, whereas Hawaii fell to 1-5.
The Sun Devils scored 30 points, including 13 in the second half, compared to Hawaii's 6 points after the break.
Arizona State allowed 127 points over five games, averaging 31.8 points against, indicating defensive vulnerabilities.
Between the lines: The weather delay had both teams adjusting strategies and mental approaches.
Arizona State managed to maintain focus and capitalize on opportunities after the break.
Hawaii's inability to convert drives into points contributed to their defeat, as they struggled against Arizona State's defense.
The delay tested both teams' resilience, with Arizona State coming out stronger in the second half.
What's next: Looking ahead, both teams have upcoming challenges that will test their resolve.
Arizona State will aim to build on this victory as they prepare for their next game against a formidable opponent.
Hawaii needs to regroup quickly as they face another tough matchup in their quest to turn around their season.
Weather continues to be a factor in college football, with future games likely facing similar challenges.