Although Arizona State has a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff, coach Kenny Dillingham is speaking his mind about the recent craze that has become the NCAA transfer portal. This is a hot topic in college football, and Dillingham isn’t holding back. His insights could reshape how recruits view the Sun Devils and the program’s future.
Embracing the Transfer Portal
During a recent media availability, Dillingham let loose and offered an interesting proposal as a potential selling point for future Arizona State recruits. He emphasized the importance of giving players the chance to stay with the team, even if they are considering entering the transfer portal. “We kinda got a mix of guys who are helping us on scout team versus guys who are helping us on game day,” Dillingham explained. “Like I said in my press conference, my job is to help these guys, and if just because they want to get in the [transfer] portal, doesn’t mean they shouldn’t have the opportunity to continue to be on the team to finish out the year if that’s what they want to do.”
This perspective is refreshing and highlights Dillingham’s commitment to his players. In an era where many coaches are quick to dismiss players who express interest in transferring, Dillingham’s approach could foster loyalty and stability within the program. It raises an important question: Should more coaches adopt a similar mentality to support their players during such a tumultuous time?
NIL Support and Fan Engagement
Dillingham’s viewpoint on the transfer portal isn’t the only aspect that makes him stand out among the nation’s most recognizable coaches. He also strongly encourages NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) support, as was evident after Arizona State knocked off Utah 29-17 in early October. In today’s college football landscape, NIL deals have become crucial for recruiting and retaining talent.
“We were picked to win four games this year, so a lot of Sun Devil fans picked the over in Vegas,” Dillingham said, showcasing his confidence in the team’s performance. “For those of you guys who won, put that money back into the collective.” His call to action for fans to reinvest in the program underscores the importance of community support in building a successful college football team.
Building a Sustainable Future
Dillingham described the Arizona State program as “underpaid,” implying that fans need to reinvest to sustain current and future success. This is a rallying cry for Sun Devil supporters, urging them to recognize the value of their contributions. If fans want to see their team thrive, they must be willing to step up and support the collective efforts that fuel the program.
But what does this mean for the future of Arizona State football? Dillingham wants the best for his program moving forward. He understands that success on the field is intertwined with financial backing and community engagement. This holistic approach could be the key to transforming Arizona State into a powerhouse in college football.
Proving the Doubters Wrong
For now, though, Dillingham has a chance to silence even more doubters in postseason play when Arizona State returns from its bye week to play in the Peach Bowl against the winner of Texas vs. Clemson. This matchup is not just another game; it’s an opportunity to showcase the hard work and dedication that the team has put in throughout the season.
The Sun Devils beat Iowa State in the Big 12 title game to qualify for the CFP after finishing 3-9 in 2023. This remarkable turnaround has caught the attention of college football fans everywhere. It raises the stakes for the upcoming Peach Bowl. Can Arizona State continue its momentum and prove that they belong among the elite teams in college football?
A Vision for the Future
Dillingham’s vision for Arizona State is clear: he wants to create a program that not only competes at a high level but also fosters a supportive environment for its players. His willingness to embrace the transfer portal and advocate for NIL support demonstrates his understanding of the current landscape of college football.
As the Sun Devils prepare for their postseason journey, fans are left wondering: what will the future hold for Arizona State football? With a coach like Dillingham at the helm, there’s a sense of optimism and excitement. The combination of player support, community engagement, and a commitment to excellence could very well position the Sun Devils for sustained success in the years to come.
In conclusion, the landscape of college football is evolving, and Arizona State is at the forefront of this change. With Kenny Dillingham leading the way, the program is poised to make a significant impact, both on and off the field. The upcoming Peach Bowl is just the beginning of what could be an exciting era for Sun Devil football.
