The previous season, the Stanford Cardinal defeated the UCLA Bruins 27–24 to win the conference title and represent the Pac-12 in the 2013 Rose Bowl Game.
Offensively, Stanford was led by RB Tyler Gaffney, who gained 1,485 yards this season for 17 touchdowns; and WR Ty Montgomery, who gained 161.9 all-purpose yards per game and scored 12 touchdowns.
Arizona State made its debut Pac-12 Championship game, having achieved its first 10-win season since 2007.
During the regular season, the team outscored its opponents by 84 points and posted a 7-0 record when playing at home in Sun Devil Stadium.
1st quarter scoring: STAN – Tyler Gaffney 69-yard run (Jordan Williamson kick); ASU – D. J.