Sun Devils Big 12 debut may be hottest October kickoff ever

PHOENIX (AZFamily) — The Sun Devils always like to bring the heat to their opponents on the football field, but this Saturday may be taking things a bit too far.

With our “Sizzle-tember” and “HOT-tober” heat wave now entering its second week, forecast highs for Saturday’s Big 12 debut against Kansas are set to be around 104 degrees at kick-off.

According to stats provided by the sports information office, the 5 p.m. game inside Mountain America Stadium would be tied for the third hottest kickoff temperature in Sun Devil Football history.

However, a closer look at those sizzling stats reveals that all the records listed are for games played in late August and early September. Not a single record set is for the month of October.

An internet search did not immediately reveal the hottest Big 12 kickoff recorded, but likely, none of the mostly Midwest universities could top the 107 degrees set on Sept. 5, 2013, against Sacramento State. That is the hottest kickoff by any Sun Devil football team.

A sizzling kick-off is in store for Sun Devil fans Saturday night. 5 PM kick-off temps could... — A sizzling kick-off is in store for Sun Devil fans Saturday night. 5 PM kick-off temps could tie for third hottest temperatures recorded at the stadium.(AZFamily)

What is really ridiculous is tailgating at reserved parking lots open at 10 AM, guests and pay lots open at noon.

Forecast highs in that time period look to be anywhere from 105 to 110 degrees. Needless to say, stay hydrated with lots of water and plan for plenty of cool breaks in the shade. Also, don’t forget your sunscreen.

Be safe and wear maroon to cheer on a Sun Devil victory!

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