As the Arizona State University Sun Devils prepare to face off against the Texas Longhorns, a unique storyline has emerged that adds extra intensity to the matchup. Several former Texas players now suit up for ASU, and they are eager for the chance to take on their old team, bringing with them a deep hunger for redemption and a desire to prove themselves.
The transfers—who left Texas for various reasons, including playing time and a fresh start—now find themselves in the spotlight, having a chance to showcase their growth on a big stage. These athletes, while grateful for their time at Texas, feel a sense of unfinished business. For them, this game represents more than just a standard regular season contest; it’s personal.
Among the most prominent of these players is quarterback Jalen Milroe, who transferred to ASU after battling for the starting job at Texas. Milroe is fired up, as he looks to show the Longhorns what they missed out on when he made the tough decision to leave. With a chip on his shoulder, he has embraced the opportunity to lead ASU’s offense and has quickly emerged as one of the team’s most valuable players. “I’ve worked hard to get here, and this game is a chance to prove my worth,” Milroe said in a recent interview.
The defensive side of the ball features former Texas players as well, including standout linebacker David Ugwoegbu, who has quickly become a key leader for ASU. Ugwoegbu, who was a standout at Texas before transferring, said he feels a special motivation heading into the game. “I spent years there, but now I’m representing something bigger,” Ugwoegbu shared. “I’m hungry for the chance to show them what they lost.”
While the players are excited, there’s also a sense of respect for their former program. Many of them grew close with their teammates and coaches in Austin and expressed a strong bond with the Longhorns, despite the desire to move on. Their shift to ASU represents new beginnings, but the memories and lessons learned from Texas are not forgotten.
For ASU head coach Kenny Dillingham, the presence of these former Longhorns adds another layer of excitement to the upcoming game. He has seen firsthand how motivated these players are to take on their former team, and he is confident they will bring their best effort to the field.
As the Sun Devils prepare to square off against the Longhorns, the game promises to be an emotionally charged contest. For the former Texas players now at ASU, it’s not just about winning—it’s about proving themselves and showing that they’re ready to take the next step in their careers.