Kenny Dillingham, the head coach of the Arizona State Sun Devils, is no stranger to adversity. As one of the youngest coaches in college football, Dillingham has transformed early career setbacks into stepping stones for success. In a recent episode of Next Up with Adam Breneman, he opened up about how these challenges have shaped his coaching philosophy and approach.
Overcoming Early Challenges
Dillingham’s journey took a challenging turn when he was unexpectedly demoted from his graduate assistant role just a day before fall camp. The sudden change left him stunned and momentarily sidelined from coaching duties. However, instead of succumbing to disappointment, he chose to pivot his focus. “I doubled down in doing everything in recruiting and getting the coffee ready and getting the paper off the printer and making the books and breaking down the games and sign kids,” he recalled. “I’m going to make myself so valuable that you’re not going to have a choice.”
This determination to add value became a cornerstone of Dillingham’s coaching philosophy. He believes in the power of personal responsibility, stating, “It’s not my job to hire you. It’s your job to make me hire you. If you’re in a building and you’re mad you didn’t get a job, that’s not the coach’s fault. That’s your fault.” This mindset not only propelled him forward but also served as a lesson for his players about the importance of resilience and self-advocacy.
Building on Last Season’s Success
As Dillingham prepares for the 2025 season, he faces new challenges following Arizona State’s impressive 2024 campaign. The Sun Devils surprised many by clinching the Big 12 title and advancing to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals. Now, the focus shifts to sustaining that success in a landscape where expectations are higher than ever.
Dillingham emphasizes that talent alone will not guarantee victory. “How do you get that same group of people to play with that fire, that energy, that passion, with that level of ‘the world is against me’?” he pondered. With over 30 players returning from last season’s two-deep roster, the challenge lies in maintaining the same intensity and drive that fueled their previous success. “We’re only going to be as good as we prepare and practice. We’re not just going to be able to show up on Saturday and win games. It’s a process,” he added.
Strategic Focus on Team Depth
With key departures, such as standout running back Cam Skattebo, depth becomes crucial for the Sun Devils. Dillingham is optimistic about the contributions of Army transfer Kany Udoh, who is expected to step in and make an immediate impact. The team’s running back unit features a versatile group that will be vital in maintaining a balanced offensive attack.
At the quarterback position, redshirt freshman Sam Leavitt will have the opportunity to hone his skills while playing with freedom. The return of wide receiver Jordyn Tyson adds another dynamic element to the offense, providing Leavitt with a reliable target as he develops.
Establishing a Standard of Excellence
Dillingham’s long-term vision for Arizona State transcends immediate victories. He aims to create a culture of excellence that ensures the program remains competitive, even during challenging seasons. “I want to establish a standard where we’re not just a flash in the pan,” he said. The excitement surrounding the program is palpable, and Dillingham believes it will help sustain success moving forward.
As the Sun Devils gear up for the upcoming season, the combination of returning talent, strategic depth, and a commitment to hard work positions them well. Dillingham’s ability to inspire and motivate his players will be crucial as they navigate the challenges ahead.
The Road Ahead
With the 2025 season on the horizon, all eyes will be on Kenny Dillingham and the Arizona State Sun Devils. The foundation laid during last year’s breakout performance sets high expectations, but Dillingham is ready for the challenge. He understands that the journey is ongoing and that success is not just about talent, but about preparation, mindset, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
As fans eagerly await the season, one thing is clear: under Dillingham’s leadership, the Sun Devils are poised to make a significant impact on the college football landscape. With a focus on resilience, teamwork, and a commitment to improvement, Arizona State is ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead. The excitement is building, and the Sun Devils are prepared to rise to the occasion.
