The highly anticipated matchup between Arizona State University's football team and Oklahoma State University has undergone a significant change due to inclement weather concerns. The Big 12 Conference announced on Friday that the game, originally scheduled for 4 p.m. MST, has been moved up to a 12:30 p.m. kickoff. This decision was made in response to the impending weather conditions that are expected to impact the Stillwater, Oklahoma region over the weekend.

Braving the Elements: ASU's Preparation for the Unexpected

The rescheduling of the game has presented both challenges and opportunities for the ASU football team. Head coach Kenny Dillingham acknowledged the impact that weather can have on the game plan and the overall rhythm of the contest. "We don't see a lot of (rain). We can try to simulate it, but it's different," Dillingham told Arizona Sports' Bickley & Marotta on Friday. "How windy is it, how rainy is it definitely has an effect on the calls in the game and the rhythm of the game, the aggressiveness of the game."Dillingham's comments highlight the importance of adaptability and preparation in the face of unpredictable weather conditions. The coaching staff has incorporated wet-ball drills into the team's practice regimen, but Dillingham admitted that these drills fall short of accurately simulating the experience of playing in a thunderstorm. "Some people think rain makes you less aggressive. Well sometimes rain and wind actually make you more aggressive because if you're punting into 20 mph wind on the 50, you may only gain 30 yards. It's fourth-and-three, maybe you gotta go for those."

Shifting Strategies: How Weather Impacts Game Plans

The impact of weather on game plans is a crucial consideration for both teams. Dillingham's insights suggest that the weather conditions could lead to more aggressive decision-making, as traditional strategies like punting may become less effective. This could result in a more dynamic and unpredictable game, with both teams forced to adapt their playcalling and in-game adjustments to the changing conditions.Moreover, the weather's influence on field position and field goal attempts could also play a significant role in the outcome of the game. Kicking into a strong wind or dealing with a wet, slippery field could make it more challenging for both teams to capitalize on scoring opportunities, potentially leading to a lower-scoring affair.

Weathering the Storm: Oklahoma State's Proactive Approach

The weather concerns have not only impacted the ASU-Oklahoma State matchup but have also led to changes in other college football games across the region. Oklahoma, Oklahoma State's in-state rival, has moved up its home game against Maine from 11:30 a.m. MST to 9 a.m., citing the "higher risk of severe weather beginning earlier in the afternoon."This proactive approach by Oklahoma's program underscores the importance of closely monitoring weather forecasts and making timely adjustments to ensure the safety and well-being of players, coaches, and fans. By moving the game time, both Oklahoma and Oklahoma State have demonstrated their commitment to prioritizing the safety of all involved while still providing an opportunity for the games to be played.

Tuning In: How to Follow the ASU-Oklahoma State Matchup

Despite the weather-related changes, fans will still have multiple options to follow the ASU-Oklahoma State game. The broadcast will be available on FOX in the local markets, while FS2 will carry the game in other regions. Additionally, play-by-play coverage will be accessible through the Arizona Sports app, 620 AM, or ArizonaSports.com.Pregame coverage will begin with the debut of the State of the Sun Devils Podcast's pregame show, which will start three hours before kickoff. This will lead into ASU's traditional pregame show with Jeff Munn. Radio coverage will commence at 9:30 a.m., aligning with the adjusted kickoff time.These broadcast and coverage options ensure that fans across the country will have the opportunity to follow the action and support their teams, despite the weather-related challenges.