Kenny Dillingham’s relentless dedication has indeed transformed Arizona State University’s football program, marking one of the most remarkable turnarounds in recent college football history.
In his second season as head coach, Dillingham led the Sun Devils from a 3–9 record in 2023 to an impressive 11–3 finish in 2024. Despite being projected to finish last in their inaugural Big 12 season, Arizona State defied expectations by clinching the conference championship with a decisive 45–19 victory over Iowa State . This achievement secured their first-ever berth in the College Football Playoff, where they narrowly lost to Texas in a thrilling double-overtime Peach Bowl, 39–31 .
Dillingham’s success is attributed to his unwavering commitment to building a cohesive team culture and recruiting players who align with his vision. His emphasis on daily improvement and resilience resonated with the team, fostering a competitive spirit that propelled their remarkable season .
Recognizing his outstanding leadership, Arizona State extended Dillingham’s contract by five years, underscoring their confidence in his ability to sustain and build upon this success . As the Sun Devils look ahead, with key players like quarterback Sam Leavitt returning, the foundation laid by Dillingham’s hard work positions the program for continued excellence.