Kansas football is desperate to end its recent skid as it heads into a critical matchup against Arizona State in Tempe on Saturday evening. The Jayhawks have dropped four straight games, quickly derailing the momentum they built last year after a 9-4 finish. Now, head coach Lance Leipold is looking for answers as his team faces the Sun Devils on the road, where weather conditions could be even more challenging than their opponent.
The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for the Tempe area until Monday night. With temperatures expected to rise well above 100°F, both teams will be tested not only by each other but also by the boiling desert climate. Kansas is not accustomed to Arizona’s harsh weather, meaning the team must adjust to avoid potential heat-related issues:
Arizona State (3-1) and Kansas (1-4) are set to kickoff in Tempe on Saturday at 5 pm local time. The forecast calls for a high of 109 degrees. The Jayhawks are in store for a very difficult environment.
— Philip Tortora (@PhilipTortora) October 2, 2024
Kansas football will play in historically hot temperatures vs. ASU
Temperatures will reach 107°F or 108°F during the afternoon tomorrow in Tempe. The hottest college football game ever recorded was Oklahoma vs. UTEP in 2000 at 108°F. While the game time temperature is expected to fall between 104°F and 105°F, it is an element that may affect the Jayhawks. (Note: I wouldn't want to be a tailgater tomorrow).
Leipold told reporters he didn't want fatigue to become an issue for his squad. Unfortunately, a climate like this is bound to affect any Midwesterner, regardless of how much water you drink. Hydration, substitutions, and pacing will be critical, and Leipold’s coaching staff will need to manage these things carefully if they want to keep their team fresh for all four quarters.
The heat may also impact the tempo of the game itself. Kansas is known for its high-energy offense at times, so it may need to dial things back — especially in the running game. Luckily, KU has two starting caliber tailbacks that can split the load. Devin Neal should be preserved for late-game carries if it is close down the stretch.
Whichever team can better manage the conditions could very well have the final say in the outcome. However, the Sun Devils are much more accustomed to these conditions. Ultimately, Kansas football is already struggling immensely and an external factor like this is not what the Jayhawks needed.