Dillingham: ASU Challenge & Pressure
- After a surprising College Football Playoff appearance last year, the Arizona State Sun Devils are generating meaningful preseason buzz.
- Dillingham addressed the shift in expectations during Big 12 spring meetings,noting that he finds motivation in being underestimated.
- Dillingham credited the team's chemistry and hard work for thier success.
kenny Dillingham,the arizona State football coach,embraces the underdog role,the very opposite of the high expectations surrounding his team after a stellar 2024 season. The Sun Devils, fueled by quarterback Sam Leavitt and receiver Jordyn Tyson, surprised everyone by reaching the college Football Playoff. this shift from underdog to frontrunner presents challenges, but Dillingham thrives on the fuel of being underestimated. news Directory 3 reports on how the coach is managing the spotlight, while also addressing the team’s chemistry and readiness for continued success. discover how Dillingham plans to navigate the increased pressure and propel Arizona State further.
Arizona state Football Faces High expectations After Playoff Run
Updated May 29, 2025
After a surprising College Football Playoff appearance last year, the Arizona State Sun Devils are generating meaningful preseason buzz. However, coach Kenny Dillingham admits he’s less comfortable with the spotlight.
Dillingham addressed the shift in expectations during Big 12 spring meetings,noting that he finds motivation in being underestimated. Last season, the Sun Devils, led by quarterback sam Leavitt and running back Cam Skattebo, defied predictions to win the Big 12 and reach the CFP, where thay fell to Texas in double overtime.
Dillingham credited the team’s chemistry and hard work for thier success. Arizona State finished no. 12 in the final CFP standings but was seeded fourth due to being a conference champion. With the CFP moving to straight seeding, Dillingham supports the change, emphasizing that teams should earn their ranking.
The Sun Devils return key players, including Leavitt, leading receiver jordyn Tyson, and top defensive player Xavion Alford. Despite higher expectations,Dillingham maintains that the team’s approach remains unchanged.
“It’s less fun, to be honest,” Dillingham said about being a favorite. “It’s naturally motivating for people to say, ‘You suck,’ and it’s way more difficult to people to say, ‘You’re good.'”
He added that past achievements don’t guarantee future success, emphasizing the competitiveness of the league.
What’s next
Arizona State will focus on maintaining its momentum and chemistry as it prepares for the upcoming season, aiming to prove its worth despite increased external pressure and College Football Playoff expectations.