Arizona State defeats Kansas in historic Wembley Stadium football premiere

The Arizona State Sun Devils defeated the Kansas Jayhawks 24-17 in the inaugural Union Jack Classic, marking the first-ever FBS college football game played at Wembley Stadium in London.

Despite being outgained 414-228 in total yards, Arizona State secured the victory through dominant special teams and defensive plays. Key highlights included a 100-yard kickoff return touchdown by Jaren Hamilton and a 77-yard fumble return by Hyrum Vaeono, which set up a Cutter Boley touchdown. Kansas struggled with ball security, committing three turnovers that ultimately decided the outcome.

The event serves as a significant milestone for the growth of American football in the United Kingdom, supported by a partnership between the Union Jack Classic and the British American Football Association (BAFA). While the game was a historic premiere for the 102-year-old stadium, reports noted that the upper-tier seating remained largely empty during the matchup.