Arizona State defensive lineman C.J. Fite reflects on team and new season
C.J. Fite says the team’s work ethic has remained the season after experiencing a breakout season in 2024.
The Big 12 championship rings have arrived for the Arizona State University Sun Devils football team following its improbable run to the conference title and berth to the College Football Playoff after being picked to finish last in the preseason media poll.
Encrusted by diamonds, the centerpiece is a golden sun design with a maroon Sparky and his trident standing in front of the Big 12 championship trophy. Surrounding Sparky are the words “2024 BIG 12 CHAMPIONS” in gold lettering.
One side of the ring reads “THE BALL” with a football right underneath it. Another side reads “SMART” with the word “SKATTEBO,” a number 4 logo and an outline of Pat Tillman underneath. Each player has their own last name and number on their ring. The final side, on the top, reads “TEAM.”
The bottom of the ring reads “L.I.F.E.R.S.,” a term used for those with a strong relationship with the school.
Inside the ring are two engravings.
The first engraving is a reference to the Big 12 championship game against Iowa State, with the score (45-17) and date (12-7-24), with the Big 12 logo at the bottom.
And, in a nod to its longstanding rivalry with the University of Arizona, there is also an engraving that reads “49-7” – referring to the score of last year’s game – with the Territorial Cup logo next to it.
ASU went 11-3 last season, losing 39-31 to Texas in double overtime in the CFP quarterfinals.
Logan Stanley is a sports reporter with The Arizona Republic who primarily focuses on high school, college and Olympic sports. To suggest ideas for human-interest stories and other news, reach out to Stanley at logan.stanley@gannett.com or 707-293-7650. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter: @LSscribe.
