ASU vs. Arizona: The 5 most controversial moments in Territorial Cup history
Nov 26, 2014, 7:36 PM | Updated: Nov 27, 2014, 5:03 pm
What makes the ASU-UA rivalry unique? Beyond the bizarre plays and upset victories, there have been numerous questionable and unsportsmanlike on- and off-field incidents that have made the Duel in the Desert especially personal.
Here’s a look at the five most controversial moments that have turned the ASU-UA rivalry into the intense, nasty spectacle it has become.
5. Color scheme (1982)
There are two sides to every controversy, and this one is no exception.
The UA version: Wildcat linebacker LaMonte Hunley said ASU decided to wear its maroon and gold jerseys for its 1982 matchup with the Wildcats in Tucson, even though tradition said the home team was supposed to wear the darker uniforms. As such, UA had to change out of its blue uniforms and into its white jerseys before the game.
The ASU version: Sun Devil quarterback Todd Hons said late Wildcat coach Larry Smith wanted UA to wear its white uniforms since it had won several big games while wearing those jerseys earlier in the year. “They told us to bring our maroon jerseys for some reason, and they were going to wear their white uniforms. You always wore your home jerseys with your dark colors,” he said.