In a stunning turnaround, Arizona State football has captured the spotlight under coach Kenny Dillingham. After a remarkable 2024 season, Dillingham’s bold vision for the Sun Devils is making waves. His commitment to building a lasting legacy at ASU hints at ambitious goals yet to unfold.
Kenny Dillingham’s Vision: A Blue Blood in the Making
Dillingham received attention after making a confident statement about Arizona State’s possibilities. In a tweet from On3’s Pete Nakos, Dillingham stated that ASU could turn into a “blue blood” in the 2020s.
“You have Clemson this last cycle, from 2010 to 2020. They just showed up. People think they’ve been around forever. You have Oregon from 2000 to 2010… There hasn’t been a team in this era, in the 2020s. The lifestyle you have in Arizona, if we can create some staff consistency, and then we’re in a league where we can continually compete to win.”
NEW: Kenny Dillingham believes Arizona State could become a blue blood of the 2020s, via @PeteNakos_🔱
“You have Clemson this last cycle, from 2010 to 2020. They just showed up. People think they’ve been around forever. You have Oregon from 2000 to 2010… There hasn’t been a… pic.twitter.com/IDy1hteOy0
— On3 (@On3sports) May 31, 2025
This comparison to powerhouse programs like Clemson and Oregon underscores his long-term aspirations for the Sun Devils.
Dillingham clarified his stance on social media, emphasizing patience and perspective.
“Of course I should believe we can build something, so should every coach of a program,” Dillingham said. “We are a LONG way away from this and the context was about why I want to be at ASU for the long haul. 1 season proves nothing. It’s a marathon not a race. #SunDevil4LIFE.”
His words reflect a grounded approach, acknowledging that sustained success requires time, even after a breakout year.
Optimism from Dillingham is backed by the 2024 season’s achievements. ASU ended up with an 11-3 record and won the Big 12 by defeating Iowa State 45-19. Sam Leavitt, the team’s quarterback, threw for 2,885 yards, 24 touchdown passes, and running back Cam Skattebo rushed for 1,711 yards and had 21 touchdown runs.
The explosive offense got a big boost when Jordyn Tyson had 1,101 receiving yards. As Dillingham noted on “The Herd with Colin Cowherd,” he wants ASU’s brand to embody “passion” and “fun,” drawing inspiration from his time at Oregon.
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Arizona State’s dedication to Dillingham can be seen by the new five-year contract, giving him an increase that matches others in the Big 12.
The coach’s priority on cultural fit, which let him recruit only a few players from the 60 added in 2024, helps the team develop. Building for another go at the College Football Playoff in 2025, Dillingham’s marathon work could reshape Arizona State football.
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