Welcome to the 2016 Formulator Bowl, an exciting clash between the Arizona State Sun Devils and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. The Sun Devils, led by coach Todd Graham and hailing from the competitive Pac-12, enter the bowl with a record of 5-7, looking to showcase their dynamic playing style. On the other side, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, under the guidance of coach Brian Kelly and playing as an Independent, bring a 4-8 record.
The Formulator Bowl is excited to welcome two power 5 teams to battle to end their season with a W!
What's Inside
Betting Odds for 2016 Formulator Bowl
Notre Dame is favored by 3.5 over Arizona State with a total of 64.5.
Arizona State Sun Devils vs. Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the 2016 Formulator Bowl
First Quarter
The game kicks off with Notre Dame swiftly driving down the field, leading to a 30-yard field goal by Justin Yoon. Arizona State responds with fervor. Manny Wilkins connects with N’Keal Harry for a 50-yard touchdown, electrifying the crowd. Notre Dame, undeterred, answers back as DeShone Kizer finds Equanimeous St. Brown for a 40-yard touchdown. The quarter ends with both teams showcasing their offensive prowess. End of First Quarter: Arizona State 7, Notre Dame 10
Second Quarter
Arizona State opens the second quarter with an impressive drive, capped off by a 10-yard rushing touchdown from Kalen Ballage. Notre Dame, displaying resilience, marches back with Josh Adams breaking free for a 25-yard touchdown run. As the half draws to a close, Zane Gonzalez nails a 45-yard field goal for the Sun Devils, keeping the game tight. End of Second Quarter: Arizona State 17, Notre Dame 17
Third Quarter
Resuming play, Notre Dame’s defense intensifies, leading to a crucial interception by Cole Luke. Capitalizing on the turnover, Kizer throws a 20-yard touchdown pass to Kevin Stepherson. Arizona State, however, is quick to retaliate, with Wilkins rushing for a 15-yard touchdown. The quarter ends with the score level, setting up a thrilling final stanza. End of Third Quarter: Arizona State 24, Notre Dame 24
Fourth Quarter
The final quarter begins with a defensive battle, as both teams struggle to break through. Midway through, Yoon hits another field goal to give Notre Dame a slight edge. In a dramatic turn, Wilkins orchestrates a masterful drive, culminating in a touchdown pass to Frederick Gammage. Notre Dame’s final drive stalls against a rejuvenated Arizona State defense. End of Fourth Quarter: Arizona State 31, Notre Dame 27
Player Statistics:
- Offensive Leaders: Manny Wilkins (Arizona State) – 280 passing yards, 2 TDs; Josh Adams (Notre Dame) – 110 rushing yards, 1 TD.
- Defensive Standouts: D.J. Calhoun (Arizona State) – 9 tackles, 1 sack; Nyles Morgan (Notre Dame) – 11 tackles.
- Formulator Bowl MVP: Manny Wilkins, for his exceptional performance, leading Arizona State to a thrilling victory with crucial plays in key moments.
The 2016 Formulator Bowl was a showcase of determination, strategy, and pivotal moments that swung the momentum. Congratulations to the Arizona State Sun Devils for their victory and to Manny Wilkins, the Formulator Bowl MVP, for his outstanding leadership and skill on the field.
You can learn more about the history of Formulator Bowl including past match-ups, MVP’s and Hall of Famers.